Lehigh Valley Style March 2017

SO LONG WINTER. HELLO SPRING.

Spring is almost here. And it’s time to celebrate with all your senses. Taste it in our celebrity chef restaurants. Bask in true luxury at the spa. Play at the nation’s largest stadium gaming arena. Applaud superstar entertainers. Rediscover the fine art of shopping.

It’s all here. All in one place. ALL YOURS.

To hold on to the man you knew before addiction, you must finally let go. Let us take it from here.

At Caron our comprehensive and innovative addiction treatment programs work to make families whole again. So when you have given all you have to give, let Caron take it from here. Reach out to us, and we’ll help you take the next step. Call 844-HOLD-ON-1 or go to caron.org/GetSupport

Coordinated Health has your secret to looking as good as you feel and his name is Dr. Gregg Guilfoyle. As a respected plastic surgeon, Dr. Guilfoyle takes a health and wellness based approach to aesthetic and reconstructive surgery, which ensures both positive and lasting effects.

EDITOR’S LETTER

MARCH 2017

Classics

Spring is in the air, and with spring comes spring cleaning. You know, “Out with the old, in with the new.” But I have to say, I’ve never been a fan of spring cleaning. I’m no advocate for the accumulation of dust throughout a home, but I’m one for holding on to things. I think that there’s something to be said for the keepsakes, the antiques and the classics.

This spring, we’d like to introduce you to four beautiful classics: Ruth, Elizabeth, Angie and Theresa. These women are vivid, accomplished, wise and, oh, quadruple my age. They are centenarians worth celebrating! They have lived fascinating lives and continue to charm those around them—originally proven by the sincere nominations they received for this edition and, later, by the profound words they shared with us.

Then, there are those who value tradition, like Peter C. Cilio. While his siblings went on to pursue other ventures, Cilio chose to continue his father’s legacy with Campania International, a company blending Old World tradition and contemporary American taste to bring terracotta pieces from Europe to independent garden centers throughout the country. As creative director of the company, Cilio garners his inspiration from antique shops around the world.

KRISTEN L. RINALDI krinaldi@lehighvalleystyle.com @kristen_rinaldi

Another fan of antique shops is Julia Konya, a DIY dynamo and interior design blogger living in Northampton whom we introduced you to last March. She is the Lehigh Valley queen of refurbishing and is spilling her secrets for taking an old piece of furniture from drab to fab, a task more complex than it may appear (grab your gas mask!), on pg. 39.

This spring, hold on to the things worth keeping.

OOPS! In the Get the Goods column of our February edition, Michael McNamara was incorrectly labeled as Mike Cusano.

PUBLISHER’S PICKS

pdeller@lehighvalleystyle.com

Photo by Elaine Zelker

Photo by Elaine Zelker

THURSDAY–SATURDAY: 10 A.M.–9 P.M. SUNDAY: 10 A.M.–6 P.M.

LEHIGH UNIVERSITY’S GOODMAN CAMPUS

$10 ADULT

$7 SENIOR CITIZENS (55+)

$7 CHILDREN (6–14) (Children 5 and under FREE)

$25 SPECIAL FAMILY PACK (2 adults and 2 children 6–14) FREE PARKING

PLUS: ROARING 20TH PREVIEW GALA WEDNESDAY, MARCH 22 | 6–10 P.M.

$150 COUPLE | $90 PERSON

Sophisticated Home

Resting on a gently sloping hillside. e generouslysized interior offers inviting rooms with detailed appointments on 3 levels. Close to I-78, LV hospitals, and country clubs. $1,245,000

Luv-Among-Us Farm

A multi-level contemporary home on 5+ acres in Upper Bucks Co. Walls of windows bring sunlight to the 3,016 sq ft floor plan. An insulated barn, fencing & 3-car detached garage. $597,500

The Villas is 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath, 3,100+ sq ft townhouse offers a unique life style. e open concept, light-filled interior provides that highly sought after feeling of spaciousness. $695,000

Southern Lehigh Schools

e sophisticated interior is bright, open and finished with model home upgrades including hand scraped wood floors, tray and coffered ceilings, and windows at every turn. $849,000

Saucon Valley

is sophisticated brick home is on 2 acres overlooking the 6th hole of the SVCC Grace Course. Perfectlypositioned windows frame rolling greens & luscious golf course acreage. $1,050,000

Beyond the Ordinary

e fabulous pool, magnificent landscaping and longdistance vistas make every day a holiday. ree levels with 4 BRs,

Majestic Setting

A 3+ acre parcel with views across the valley. is move-in ready home offers an open floor plan with a 2-story foyer, Brazilian cherry floors, 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 4,118 sq ft. $525,000

On Cooks Creek

An open floor plan offers floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace, 2 lofted studios, a master suite with deck & two second fl BRs. e walk-out LL, with bedroom and bath, pool and patio. $1,199,000

Forge Run

Forge Run is a richly-appointed, carriage-house design, built without compromise and meticulously-crafted, incorporating dramatic rooflines with classic proportions and traditional styling. $799,900

Lehigh Fields

e timeless architecture is artfully sited on the land and offers an interior bathed in light, boasting perfect privacy and unobstructed views of Lehigh University’s playing fields. $585,000

Gentleman’s Estate

Incredible views, an upscale custom built home and superior equestrian facilities are found on this 10+ acre parcel. e 2-story great room overlooks a pool and patio space. $1,250,000

Long-Range Views is enchanting barn rests along a tranquil road boasting incredible privacy and views and an open floor plan with a sleek urban vibe. Detached 2-car garage and heated studio/workshop. $725,000

VOLUME 18, ISSUE 3

President/CEO: Paul Prass

Vice President/COO: Lisa Prass

Publisher: Pamela K. Deller

Managing Editor: Kristen Rinaldi

Director of Creative Services: Erica Montes

Art Director: Elaine Wyborski

Graphic Designer: Thomas Körp

Advertising Executives: Kellie Bartholomew, Caley Bittner, Denise Conlin, Pam Taylor

Marketing & Events Coordinator: Kelli Hertzog

Contributing Writers: Susan Bianchi, Therese Ciesinski, Carrie Havranek, Hanna O’Reilly, Amy Unger, Daisy Willis

Contributing Photographers: Colin Coleman, Alison Conklin, Andrew Tomasino

Proofreader: Lori McLaughlin

Accounting: Donna Bachman, Debbie Clune

Circulation Manager: Andrea Karges

STAFF SPEAKS

My “dream home” MUST include...

A front porch and garage.

Denise Conlin, advertising executive

A large industrial-style kitchen with a Jackson dishwasher— dishes done in two minutes!

Elaine Wyborski, art director

A big kitchen island—that’s where everyone gathers!

Pam Deller, publisher

Many VERY large windows and doors along with a geothermal HVAC system!

Pam Taylor, advertising executive

A walk-in closet and a clawfoot tub, please!

Kristen Rinaldi, managing editor

FAMILY OWNED FOR 68 YEARS

FRIENDLY SALES. RELIABLE SERVICE. GUARANTEED.

Rustic wood beams and floors, an ahh-mazing kitchen and a gorgeous outdoor escape. Oh, and closet organizer systems in every room!

Caley Bittner, senior advertising executive

A huge stone fireplace and lots of natural light!

Kellie Bartholomew, advertising executive Tell us what you think at facebook.com/lehighvalleystyle for your chance to be featured in the next issue.

Susan Bianchi, MS Wellness Coach and Body Alchemist FOUNTAIN HILL

MORAVIAN ACADEMY

How long have you been a contributor for Style? I thought it was only two years but it is actually four years—time sure flies.

New Lincoln Continental

Tell us about the process of writing the monthly column Living Well: Coming from my wellness and fitness coaching background, I am always looking to share a slightly different perspective or angle on a topic that may not always be covered. Research leads the way until I feel I have a thorough picture and then the writing can begin. I typically break the article down into segments so I can write in short stints—this way I can feel I am accomplishing a small goal and can set up a small reward.

Tell us a little bit about your professional health background:

I have been coaching and training clients for the last 15 years. I have an MS in Exercise Science and am a Master Level Practitioner and Presenter of Ki-Hara Resistance Stretching Method. I hold certifications as a Holistic Lifestyle Coach with the CHEK Institute and Neuro Kinetic Therapy. The learning never ends and is part of what I love about the work. In my practice, clients range from professional, elite-level athletes to those suffering from chronic injuries and conditions to those just wishing to move and be better.

What’s the best part about writing for Style readers?

The readers of Style are smart, inquisitive and on the front edge of trends and ideas. They look to learn something new and to stay informed. This

encourages, inspires and challenges me to share fresh perspectives and insights to help them towards their best health.

What are some of your favorite places to be “healthy” in the Valley?

Jenny’s Kuali Malaysian cuisine—they have a wide variety of protein-based or vegetarian dishes that are incredibly flavorful, healthy and cooked with love. Frey’s health food store is a favorite stop on my way home. They have a great selection. I am a fan of Athleta and love that I get to wear them as my “work clothes.” You can usually find me on South Mountain Trails for a trail run or on my bike on quiet back roads near the Velodrome for an invigorating ride.

Who are your greatest inspirations?

I am continually inspired by words of Elizabeth Gilbert, Brene Brown and Dr. Kathy Dooley. In work, my clients provide the greatest inspiration without a doubt.

What are you currently obsessed with?

My Nespresso Espresso machine and Qigong.

What distracts you from your work?

Emails or any other media, especially when I hit a writing roadblock. I’m learning to just get up and move around instead.

What can readers see you drinking at an Insider

Happy Hour? What will they never see you drinking?

A great glass of Chardonnay or a New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc. I can’t say never, but I usually skip mixed drinks.

What’s your favorite way to defy aging?

For me, it is movement in all shapes and forms and refusing to buy into “it’s a part of aging.” I hear all too often when people are stiff and stuck, they blame it on age. I say movement not just exercise, because even in exercise we can get stuck in patterns. So I try to move; I exercise, play, challenge the body. I look for different ways that keeps me curious, creative and stimulated.

How will you be celebrating spring’s arrival?

One way I will celebrate spring is by planting organic vegetable seeds in our small but mighty garden. The veggies just taste incredible if you have the space to grow your own. I will also celebrate by getting a prime seat at any cafe willing to put tables outside on the first sunny spring day. There is nothing I love more than being outside, enjoying good food, sunshine and a little people watching.

TRUNK

STYLE SCENE

EVENTS | BENEFITS | GALAS | PARTIES

Benefit: IronPigs Charities

Ramaley,

11.

15.

Amy

Raab, John and Ellen Destasio and Matt Connell 18. Steve Boyle, Jay Charlie, John Peters and Josh Snyder 19. Thea Tantaros and Keith Falcone 20. Lou

Phillies Winter Banquet

Location: Sands Bethlehem Event Center

Photos By: Vlad Image Studio

1. Chris Kobela, Allison Valentine, Justin Vrona and Steve Agosti 2. Adam Pursell, Matt Barraco and Robert Barraco 3. Chad Derstine, FeRROUS and Carol Obando-Derstine 4. Christine Piper, Jack Piper and Ryan Piper 5. Janice Osborne, Brad Osborne and Marta Gabriel 6. Joe Black, Rick Maderas and Robert Diaz 7. Ray Nemeth and Tammy Risteter 8. Kevin

Betty Ramaley and

Rotzelle 9. Mackenna Lynch and Maddison Kendrick 10. Mary Pat and Joe Brake

Michael and Ann Danese, and Mary and John Dodds 12. Michael and Rebecca Bell 13. Sara Dickey and Dawn Fernandez 14. Rosemary Mirabito, Lisa Luciano, Amanda Bates, Cindy Kroening, Lauren Tarola and Elizabeth Weber

Rick Morrissey, Darcie Garcia, Melissa Morrissey and Jonathan Morrissey 16. Val Lewis and Nick Tranguch 17. Scott

Harmelin and Dyana Sweigart

STYLE SCENE

LVBA Awards

Reception

Benefit: Lehigh Valley Builders Association

Location: Historic Hotel Bethlehem

By: Michelle Coppola Photography 1. Dave Howard, Donna Smith and Jim LaPorta 2. Bonnie Dietrich and Jade Sotak 3. Christine Lindenmuth and Elizabeth Loane 4. Dave and Lindsey Tomcics 5. Tony and Penny Caciolo, and Keith Hoeing 6. Dave Shankweiler, Judy Rau, and Curtis and Shirley Schneck 7. Elizabeth and Brian Baker 8. Hersh and Robin Ruhmel 9. Jason Edmonds and Neil Ciotola 10. Kate and Gene Kline 11. Lauren Ford and Dan Gartner 12. Lis Flynn and Chuck Hamilton 13. Mary Ellen and Jeffery Dischinat 14. Michelle and Bill Shafer 15. Myron and Carrie Haydt 16. Paul and Mary Beth Karoly 17. Shannon Cawley and Keith Hoeing 18. Robert Blalock, John Weber and Harley Shupp 19. Dave Gloss, Rocco Zegalia and John Reiniger 20. Justin and Erin Corsa, Jim Rowlands and Jolynne Bruno 21. Mary Ann and Joe Puhan 22. Tanya Argeros and Erin Piar 23. Tim Jones and Kristen Rinaldi 24. Marcie and Tony Koneski 25. Jason Pezzuti, Bob Wilke and Bryan Makatura

Photos

STYLE SCENE

Style Insider Happy Hour

A Night of Freedom Gala

Benefit: VAST

Location: Edge

Photos By: Shelbie Pletz

1. Andrea Hart, Amanda Case and Caitlyn McGouldrick 2. Emilee Hajdu and Ann Marie Supinski 3. Ron Stauffer, Tory Weaver, and Wendy and Kelly Keim 4. Jay Nuno, Bill Binczak and Dax Paraschos 5. Mike Borozan, Ron Atamian, Jermaine Calhoun and Mike Robinson 6. Rian Carr, Lisa Volk and Andrea Skirdlant 7. Veronica Dominic, and Jason and Shannon Vega 8. Laura Bogert and Shannon Sigafoos

Location: Historic Hotel Bethlehem

Photos By: Shelbie Pletz

1. Beck Sullivan, Amy Daws, Heather Evans and Valerie Moyer 2. Carmelo and Nani Cuadrado 3. Dirk and Linda Friend 4. Jana and Rob Sarnowski 5. Jane Guerino and Ed Billiard 6. Khine Alkhal and Kathy Delhagen 7. Marci Ronald and Pereck Lesko 8. Maria and Eric Schwartz 9. Michael Cone and John Luke Laube 10. Nicole Bryan and Jim Hierl 11. Paul Duca and Shea Rhodes 12. Mark Evans, Josh Wildasin and Phil Monroe 13. Rose Scherer and Yvonne Hensinger 14. Rick and Kristin Dobrowolski, and Nate and Melanie Agentis 15. Susan Nelson, Sheryl Davidson and Marie Wildasin

VALLEYRUN

OneofthefinestpropertieseverofferedinBucksCounty.Theproperty wentunder2yearsofrenovationtocreatethismagnificent metamorphosis.Throughtheentrancegates,transversingthickgreenlawns, waterfalls,pondsandmuseumqualitysculptures,youarrivetoValleyRun’s parkingsquare.Thebarnhousesaguestapartmentfeaturingthebest amenities.Thesecondguesthousehas2bedroomsonitstwolevels.New heatedpool,withnewpoolhouse.

PHEASANTVALLEYFARM

Aprestigiouspropertyon89plusacressheditsgenesisinan1840sstone farmhousethathasbeenperfectlyrestoredintoa3bedroom,1½bath guesthouse.Theoriginalbarnwasconvertedintoadramaticspacethat canlenditselftobothahistoricaloracontemporaryinterior.TheGreat Roomhassoaringceilingswithlargeoriginaltimbers,plankflooring,stone fireplaceandatwo-storyPalladiumwindow.Theexpansiveroom continuesintoarenovatedopenkitchen. $2,395,000

PHILLIPSFARM

Itisraretofindanunspoiledstuccooverstonefarmhouse,siteddowna longdriveinthemiddleof57vistafilledTinicumacresinBucksCounty. Thehomehasarenovatedeat-inkitchen,diningroomwithfireplace,plank flooring,wallsoflargestatelywindowsandafullbath.Thesecondlevel offerstwofullbathsand4bedrooms.Thefreshlypaintedhomehasa properBucksCountystyle.Renovatedbarnandin-groundpool. $1,649,000

CALENDAR 3.17

10 THINGS TO DO THIS MONTH

RED HOT CHILLI PIPERS

Bagpipes with a unique mix of rock is enough to get the crowd pumped. The Red Hot Chilli Pipers will perform their signature “Bagrock” sound, a surprising mix of bagpipes and drums, at the State Theatre. The talented Liberty High School Grenadier Bagpipers will also get a moment to shine as they accompany the Red Hot Chilli Pipers.

$37 | 7:30 p.m. State Theatre 453 Northampton St., Easton | 610.252.3132 statetheatre.org

YA FEST

Meet 40 Young Adult authors, participate in book signings and buy raffle tickets at the Easton Area Public Library. Talent is thriving in the area and YA FEST is looking to promote these hardworking individuals. Their books will be for sale on the premises, giving readers the opportunity to enjoy the work of these young writers.

1–3 p.m. | Palmer Branch of the Easton Area Public Library | 1 Weller Place, Easton 610.258.7492 | yafest.org

23-26

1– 5

$21–$25 | Times vary Labuda Center for the Performing Arts 2755 Station Ave., Center Valley 610.282.3192 | desales.edu 18

The Crucible

This classic story highlighting the village of Salem and its alleged occurrences of witchcraft gets a rare twist with DeSales University’s unique theatrical style. Discussion sessions with the cast, crew and director will be held after the first Sunday matinee and morning matinee showings.

Celebrate the 20th Anniversary of the Lehigh Valley Auto Show, presented by the Greater Lehigh Valley Auto Dealers Association. Their largest show ever, there will be more than 250 new cars, trucks, SUVs, motorcycles and ATVs—from 32 different manufacturers—on display all weekend long. Stop by the region’s premier showcase and experience the top automobile technology from around the globe.

Adults: $10; Kids & Seniors: $7 | Times vary Lehigh University, Goodman Campus 124 Goodman Dr., Bethlehem 610.758.9691 | glvada.org

25

KD Smith Auctions

Coins, puzzles, plates, jewelry and more are up for grabs at the upcoming KD Smith Auction. The mall features over 100,000 square feet of specialty shops filled with items for everyone. Merchants Square Mall, home of the KD Smith Auction, also features a full-service restaurant and the world’s most amazing model train.

10 a.m.–3 p.m. | 1901 S. 12th St., Allentown 610.797.8051 | merchantssquaremall.com

Photo by Benno Hunziker

29 –30

ONCE

An original Broadway experience is coming to Easton. After winning eight 2012 Tony Awards, Once has stolen the hearts of audience members everywhere. This musical tells the tale of a street musician from Dublin who falls in love. The show will not only have audience members singing along but will pull them in with its captivating storyline.

$59–$66 | 8 p.m. | State Theatre

453 Northampton St., Easton 610.252.3132 | statetheatre.org

31

LU Choir, Dolce and Glee Club: Spanish Nights

Lehigh’s Choral Arts is gearing up to tour Spain this May and, to honor this journey, they will be presenting some of their best music with a little touch of Spain. The talented students of Lehigh University will show off their hard work and dedication to this program before they represent the university outside the country.

$15 | 8 p.m. | Zoellner Arts Center

420 E. Packer Ave., Bethlehem

610.759.2787 | zoellner.cas2.lehigh.ed

The Temptations and the Four Tops

The true sound of Motown will fill the air of the Sands with an incredible performance from the last two surviving members of The Temptations and the Four Tops. Feel their competitive energy as they renew their rivalry and perform hit songs like “My Girl” and “I Can’t Help Myself (Sugar Pie, Honey Bunch).”

$45–$69.50 | 7 p.m.

Sands Event Center

77 Sands Blvd., Bethlehem

610.297.7414 | sandseventcenter.com

Tout à Trac: Alice in Wonderland

Watch as actors and actresses sing and dance their way down the rabbit hole! There will be a sensory-friendly performance for children with Autism Spectrum Disorders and other sensory processing challenges at 1 p.m., so everybody can enjoy. Get ready to be taken away to Wonderland.

$10–$25 | 1 & 4 p.m.

Zoellner Arts Center

420 E. Packer Ave., Bethlehem

610.758.2787 | zoellner.cas2.lehigh.edu

10

Five Irish Tenors

Ireland’s popular ensemble The Five Irish Tenors will set out on their first North American tour this spring. Famous Irish hits will be introduced to audience members just in time for Saint Patrick’s Day. Songs like “Toora-Loora-Looral,” “When Irish Eyes are Smiling,” “Danny Boy” and more will capture the enjoyment of fans and bring a newfound love for the sounds of Irish music in the Valley.

$40–$45 | 7:30 p.m. | State Theatre

453 Northampton St., Easton 610.252.3132 | statetheatre.org

To find out what’s happening this weekend, sign up for our

Photo courtesy of State Theatre

Photo by Keith Dixon

Photo by Marc-Antoine Duhaime

stage: STAR OF THE DAY

Get ready to discover a hidden gem in the Lehigh Valley’s treasure trove of theatre arts: Star of the Day presents musical theatre productions throughout the year at an intimate venue in Quakertown. This month, the student edition of Les Misérables will give some of the area’s best young actors roles in an epic drama of romance and revolution.

Founder and President Kirsten Almeida was enjoying fair success in the New York City audition circuit two years ago when her best friend of 28 years was diagnosed with cancer and passed away within a week. “It made me realize that life is, in fact, short,” Almeida says. “That tomorrow is never promised.” Unemployed, in debt, without a penny to her name, she started Star of the Day Event Productions.

The first event to form was Spotlight Cabaret, a laid-back monthly concert with a different theme each time. From Golden Era to Contemporary Broadway, professional vocalists from all over

BY DAISY WILLIS

the Lehigh Valley belt their best every second Thursday at Allentown Brew Works’ High Gravity Lounge.

Star of the Day’s performance home is at McCoole’s Arts & Events Place in Quakertown, in a little-known black-box theatre on the second floor. Past productions include Sweeney Todd, Babes in Toyland and Gypsy, starring performers from the Valley’s rich talent pool. With three family-friendly and three mainstage musicals each year, Star of the Day offers not only great shows but great opportunities for young actors to work alongside seasoned professionals. The Student Theatre Apprentice Recognition program gives students from grade eight to college a chance to develop skills in aspects like directing, stage managing, production, design and marketing. Whether you love seeing it or being part of it, Star of the Day is dedicated to sharing the art of drama.

staroftheday.org

A HOUSE FOR HAPPY MOTHERS

A NOVEL BY AMULYA

MALLADI

Two mothers’ journeys to save their families are wrapped up into one breathtaking story. Priya and Asha, two women on opposite sides of the world, cross paths in India’s rising surrogacy industry. Priya, unable to have children, is endlessly searching for someone who can. This story leaves readers with a warm heart and a greater appreciation for family.

GLASS SHATTERS

BY MICHELLE MEYERS

Charles Lang wakes up confused as to where and who he is. He finds himself in an abandoned home, which leads him to discover pieces about his life, from his occupation to his family members who are missing. As the story goes on, Charles learns more and more about his past and is determined to uncover all the secrets.

THE HOLE IN THE MIDDLE

BY KATE HILTON

Sophie Whelan is the modern-day superwoman. From PTA meetings to dinner parties, this 40 year old leads one chaotic lifestyle. However, in the midst of all the rush, she starts to question her existence while dealing with things resurfacing from her past. Sophie learns a lot about herself while sorting through the mess. amazon.com

13: THE MUSICAL

Grayson LaBar and Luke Raso

music: KIRA WILLEY

BY DAISY WILLIS

It’s common knowledge that the calming, healthful effects of mindfulness and yoga are available to all who take time to breathe, move and simply be with intention, but it’s not just adults who can reap the benefits. Bethlehem’s Kira Willey brings this practice to the Lehigh Valley’s youngsters with music and workshops that make mindfulness a part of life and help kids manage their feelings and energy.

When lifelong musician Willey started teaching yoga to children after college, she found that adding her guitar and singing instructions got kids much more engaged. “My musical instructions became snippets, snippets became songs and the songs became an album,” Willey says. Dance for the Sun has won multiple awards including a Parents’ Choice Award and the Independent Music Award for Best Children’s Album.

Now, Willey performs yoga concerts, conducts workshops and helps teachers and schools implement mindfulness in the classroom. Her popular Rockin’ Yoga school assemblies can get

an auditorium full of kids moving and stretching to the music.

On Mindful Moments for Kids, creative minutelong exercises lead kids in a meditative practice that they can connect with and enjoy. Kids don’t need to have the word mindfulness in their vocabulary or read articles about the science behind it to feel calm when they follow a track like “Bear Breath,” which invites them to imagine being a bear hibernating in a safe, warm cave. Through rhythm, breathing, visualizations and motion, kids can learn the self-awareness and self-regulation that will serve them in every part of their lives, and have a good time doing it!

This fall, Rodale’s new imprint Rodale Kids will be publishing Willey’s first children’s book, Read Like a Bear, based on Mindful Moments and full of beautifully illustrated, do-anywhere mindfulness breaks for kids.

Check out Willey’s website for local appearances!

firefliesyoga.com

This month, experience mesmerizing origami installations via the first traveling exhibition of its kind, Above the Fold. The exhibition has already toured through Massachusetts, Virginia, West Virginia, Colorado, California and Florida, and now the Allentown Art Museum will be its host from March 5 through May 26, before continuing through South Dakota, Ohio, Canada and Wisconsin.

Be amazed by the social, political and aesthetic ideas expressed by these large-scale paper creations made specifically for the Above the Fold tour. Of the nine international origami artists represented in the tour, several have pieces in permanent collections that can be found at prominent museums like the Smithsonian American Art Museum’s Renwick Gallery and the Museum of Modern Art in New York.

Above the Fold was curated by Meher McArthur and the tour was organized by International Arts & Artists, Washington, D.C.

Fowler Gallery, Allentown Art Museum allentownartmuseum.org

Photo by Hilary Murphy Photography

Rev. Dr. Grant Harrity Award for Exemplary Service to the Aging –Dr. Francis A. Salerno, In Memoriam

March 23, 2017 Featuring a performance by The Craig Thatcher Band, Unplugged Visit phoebe.org/piabenefit to register or call 610-794-5163

unique company explores the madness and mayhem of Carroll’s fairy tale through a creative theatricality of intertwining masks, singing, dancing and puppetry.

LIFE IN THE VALLEY

NEWS, NOTES & QUOTES

FRE SHEST FARE, HOMEMADE CARE

Back Door Bakeshop

Feel-good food is right next door. Dina Hall and Gail Lehman, owners of Bethlehem’s Back Door Bakeshop, work hard to combine their talents of baking delectable desserts and crafting delicious soups and sandwiches. Hall and Lehman say, “We hand-pick all of the ingredients and make everything from scratch, offering the freshest possible fare, created with homemade care.” Twists on family recipes are what make this place so popular. Not to mention, everything here is available for takeout!

92 E. Broad St., Bethlehem

610.625.0987 | backdoorbakeshop.com

Be Part of the Story!

Do you have a favorite restaurant with an awesome atmosphere and even better menu? Spill the details to us and we may cover it in our Inside Dish column. Is there a local retail shop our readers simply must know about? Tell us and you might find it in our Get the Goods column.

editor@lehighvalleystyle.com

The

Publishing House Co

. POP GOES THE EVENT

Bringing the New York City vibe to Pennsylvania, The Publishing House Co. is using its studio and marketplace to cater to events, retail opportunities and digital content creation services. This one-of-a-kind pop-up rental service helps customers promote their businesses and products in the best way possible. From photography to retail, The Publishing House Co. connects with people all over to ensure promotion that is trendy and successful.

243 W. Main St., Kutztown 610.406.3989 | thepublishinghouseco.com

TASTY TRAVELS

Rios Brazilian Steakhouse

The Brazilian barbecue style is an experience for all who dine at Rios Brazilian Steakhouse in Nazareth. Since opening in 2008, the restaurant has continued to serve some of the best meat in the Valley. Owners Edson Geleski, Dina Geleski and Thiago Novo believe that Rios Brazilian Steakhouse stands apart from the average restaurant. “The Brazilian barbecue style is a real experience. Meat runners serve all of their customers with large pieces of meats to be carved on the tables,” they say. Various cuts of lamb, chicken, sausage and more are offered on the menu, along with delicious homemade desserts. Can’t dine in? Rios Brazilian Steakhouse offers catering and take-out to ensure that everybody can experience it for themselves. They’re going on ten years of great service, great customers and delicious food.

127 S. Broad St., Nazareth | 610.614.1018 | riosbr.com

VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT

MIKE & TERESE CUDWADIE

Mary

Mike and Terese Cudwadie have been longtime advocates of Dorneyville’s Angel Shop, a major contributor to Mary’s Shelter in Reading. As the parents of two sons, the loneliness of them

being away at school inspired Mike and Terese to further their involvement with Mary’s Shelter, a nonprofit that provides social services, such as counseling and temporary housing, to women who are pregnant.

As empty nesters, Mike and Terese wanted to further their parenting skills to benefit those who may not have the necessary guidance and outlets to do so. Terese immediately joined the board of Mary’s Shelter and fell in love with the children. After one tour of the shelter and an encounter with a family, Terese knew her decision to join the board and become more involved was the right one. “I went home and told Mike we should begin babysitting,” Terese says. She takes care of the babies of the shelter while Mike works with the older kids and helps with household tasks that would otherwise go unnoticed. “There was nothing more rewarding than to see the kids and moms respond to us each week,” says Terese. “Many of the moms do not have their own mom for guidance, so they would ask parenting and life-skill questions, and it just felt so good.”

Not only were Mike and Terese fully interested in helping the shelter, but their sons started to become involved with certain tasks as well, such as helping to move furniture for residents who would be moving out. The shelter has benefited greatly from selfless acts such as theirs and the endless support towards the members. Not only has the shelter gained a great deal from Mike and Terese, but they feel as though they walk away with something deeper than they could have imagined. “The shelter has made Mike and me better people. It has been the most rewarding ‘thing’ we have ever done in our lives,” says Terese.

marysshelter.org

Personalized pregnancy care.

Pregnancy is among life’s most incredible journeys. And your family will want to rely upon the best pregnancy care and guidance in the region. Whether you’re thinking about a pregnancy, or already expecting, your care team at Lehigh Valley Health Network is here to provide a personal birth experience for you and your loved ones.

We provide expectant families with exactly the care you need, every step of the way. Such as insightful classes and education to inform your pregnancy from the planning stages through parenthood. And an experienced personal nurse liaison, your own dedicated partner who answers questions, shares advice and personally guides you through your pregnancy journey.

’s Shelter

CHANGING THE FACE OF SKIN CARE

FACE IT CO.

Rachel and Moriah Miller, cofounders of Face It Co., are changing the way consumers look at their favorite skin care items. Witnessing firsthand the harmful effects of chemicals in products with the loss of their father to a chemical-induced cancer, these sisters were determined to formulate natural and safe products for everyone to enjoy. “At Face It Co., our passion is teaching consumers about the harmful chemicals in today’s beauty industry. Our company is here to make a change, to give people safe, trustworthy, powerful products that deliver the best results everyone is searching for,” they say. Face It Co.’s product line ranges from bar soaps, facial cleansers and step-by-step skin care kits to a men’s line for all ages. Their products are completely organic, vegan and cruelty free, coining the tagline “Farm to Face.” Rachel and Moriah are changing the world of beauty, one less chemical at a time.

faceitco.com

Between before and after.

In addition, we offer two Family Birth and Newborn Centers in the Lehigh Valley: Muhlenberg, which is our newest birthing destination opening summer 2017 and Cedar Crest.

It’s all the care your whole family needs. Between before and after. Go to LVHN.org/WelcomeBaby and let’s get started.

FASHION & BEAUTY

THIS MONTH’S PICKS

Fresh & Fragrant

Spring is in the air with these luxuriant candles. VOLUSPA is serving notes of sun-kissed pineapple, tangerine and creamy vanilla with its Nissho-Soleil fragrance, and notes of ripe peaches, sweet pitted apricots, muddled with sugar and crisp prosecco in its Prosecco Bellini blend. Meanwhile, Chesapeake Bay Candle® introduces The Garden of Alassis, filled with sophisticated fragrances evoking lush and fragrant auras, transforming any home into a Mediterranean experience.

Chesapeake Bay Candle®

Alassis Collection 5.8oz candle, Blush Orchid & Plum

$24.95, AM Luxe

VOLUSPA 14oz Embossed Glass Chawan Bowl candle, Nissho-Soleil

$25, Pure Barre Bethlehem

Chesapeake Bay Candle

Alassis Collection 5.8oz candle, Seagrass & Musk $24.95, AM Luxe

VOLUSPA 11oz Maison Metallo 2-wick candle, Prosecco Bellini $16, Pure Barre Bethlehem

PHOTOGRAPHY BY COLIN COLEMAN

Chesapeake Bay Candle® Alassis Collection 13.2oz candle, Fig & Violet Leaves $39.95, AM Luxe

A MAKEOVER WITH STYLE

LOCAL BEAUTY TRANSFORMATIONS

Heidi Markow

Beginning Over, Easton

BY DAISY WILLIS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY COLIN COLEMAN

Getting glitzed up for a formal event is fun for some, but intimidating for others. For makeup artist Alisha Nycole, making the transformation from everyday makeup to something fitting the occasion is both passion and profession, and she shared it with Beginning Over’s Heidi Markow, whose dedication to this foundation for victims of domestic abuse has certainly earned her some pampering.

What does a good makeover mean to you?

The feeling that I still look like me, just better! Providing free services for victims of domestic violence through the Purple Salon, I can only imagine what they must feel. I know that looking good boosts self-esteem and empowers women to understand their self-worth. Women are made of excellence and they should feel empowered every day. Those of us that have the ability to make that happen should do it!

What is your usual relationship with makeup?

I’ve never worn a lot of makeup and, really, it’s just the last thing I think about. [I] usually just rush through that part.

What feels like the most dramatic change in this makeover?

I was under the impression that a makeup artist would leave me feeling like I had another layer of heavy makeup on my face. This makeover was much different. It honestly felt like I was wearing little makeup.

How do you like getting gussied up for formal events?

I am so basic. I usually curl my hair in a nice beachwavy style and just put on a little makeup. I am more interested in feeling like I’m put together, feeling comfortable. For a bigger event, I’ll have my daughter do my hair and makeup. When my daughter got married, as the mother of the bride I was more concerned about everything going perfectly and not too concerned about myself. I’m sure most moms of the bride can relate!

Which techniques or products from the makeover might make it into your own repertoire for special occasions?

I loved the spray-on foundation that Alisha used. I also loved the eyebrow pencil. I’ve had the opportunity to work with many makeup artists in the past and Alisha did something different. I left feeling like me, no heavy, can’t-wait-to-get-homeand-wash-my-face feeling.

Alisha Nycole

Makeup Artist

Alisha Nycole & Co.

What do you love already about Heidi’s style?

Heidi has a very classic and put-together style naturally. She’s a vibrant and vivacious blonde who lights up the room. She is not only beautiful, but her résumé in her personal life is pretty awesome too!

What’s the first decision you made when choosing how to do Heidi’s makeup?

I knew I wanted to focus on her eyes! Her beautiful blue eyes really stood out to me. The first thing people notice when speaking to each other is their eyes. They are where we can see the most emotion. I think a great makeup application is centered around how appealing and soulful we can make the eyes.

Which product do you use that a makeup novice could have success with?

The Sephora Airbrush foundation is a spray on, waterproof airbrush foundation that takes no time to apply and you cannot mess it up! It also has a slight glow to it and mimics the look of natural skin really well. I love to pair it with Strobe Cream from MAC.

How do you really step up a person’s look for a special occasion without going too far?

You always want to maintain balance. No one individual feature should overpower a look or be lacquered on too heavily. As humans, we aesthetically love harmonious symmetry, so that should always be kept in mind. If you love your eyes, using complementary tones around the eyes is the best way to pop the color. If you love your smile, making

it pop with a great shade of lipstick is fun, but if you don’t wear red lips, a special event is not the time to try something that bold.

What’s your favorite aspect of this makeover?

I loved watching her confidently go into the shoot feeling awesome, and [I loved] giving back to someone who gives so much. I feel like as women, we can be “givers” and there is sometimes guilt associated with spending time on ourselves. I also loved being able to show some quick tricks on how to put yourself together and put your best features forward.

What’s one takeaway that Heidi can use in her daily routine to add a little glamour?

Wearing bronze tones and plums around the eyes for a quick pick-me-up! And don’t forget the eyebrow pencil. Blondes tend to have light features, so adding a little depth around the eyes is a great way to enhance those baby blues!

What are some challenges to doing special event makeup?

For me it’s hard to think of any, because it’s one of my favorite things to do! For other women doing their own makeup, one challenge is remembering that at any age and any time in life, you can be sexy, playful and glamorous, and spending time—even five minutes—on yourself is a worthwhile investment.

Alisha Nycole & Co.

1256 Simon Blvd., Unit J 105, Easton 484.522.4691 | alishanycole.com

HEALTH | FITNESS | ATTITUDE

How to DEFY AGING at Every Age

BY SUSAN BIANCHI, MS, HEALTH & WELLNESS COACH

Staying young and fighting Father Time may seem like a battle, but keeping up with these healthy practices through the decades will help slow down the clock.

In Your 20s START EATING RIGHT

The body is very forgiving when you are young, but now is the time to create good nutritional habits to set yourself up for a lifetime of good health. Put the junk food and energy drinks aside and look for whole foods. Get into the kitchen, save money and your health.

LIVING WELL

TAKE A LUXURY CRUISE THROUGH THE COUNTRYSIDE

FIX YOUR POSTURE

Phones and computers can wreak havoc on posture. Pay attention now and save yourself from lower back, neck and shoulder injuries. Posture can impact your mental attitude as well as your career opportunities. Poor posture can be perceived as low self-esteem and low self-confidence. Incorporate more exercises that strengthen extension of the spine instead of your favorite crunches.

In Your 30s

TAKE CARE OF YOUR MENTAL & EMOTIONAL HEALTH

Working long hours, managing a home and taking care of children and aging parents can leave little time for self-care. Whether setting aside time for meditation and silent walks or seeking counseling, finding ways and tools to deal with the stresses of daily life is critical to staying healthy.

REMEMBER STRENGTH TRAINING

Now is when muscle and bone mass can begin to decline. Beginning in your 30s, you can lose three to five percent of muscle mass each decade. The good news is that studies show this is not an inevitability. If you stay active and remember to challenge your body with weight-bearing activities, you can maintain your muscle and bone mass.

In Your 40s

LISTEN TO YOUR GUT

Hormonal shifts, stress and antibiotics can alter your intestinal health over the years. Supporting your intestinal health with probiotics as well as live fermented foods can help replenish the good flora in your gut and fend off autoimmune conditions caused by a leaky gut.

Emotionally, it is also a good reminder to pay attention and listen to your “gut” and what is important for your well-being versus what you think you “should do.”

STOP SAYING YOUR AGE

This may sound like a vanity issue, but it is a matter of changing mindsets. Societal beliefs on aging can infiltrate your psyche and feed into expected shifts with age. Few people feel the age they actually are, so why tell yourself you are older than you feel and feed into the beliefs?

In Your 50s

DON’T HELP ACCELERATE THE

CLOCK

It’s never too late to stop or curb habits that you know are harming you. The body has an amazing ability to repair when given a good environment. Now is the time to address those harmful habits, whether it’s smoking, drinking or sitting. Yes,

sitting is considered the “new smoking,” so start now, get up and move often.

REMEMBER RECOVERY

Recovery time is critical at any age, so don’t ignore it. By not allowing the body and mind adequate recovery time, you will get diminishing returns and be more prone to injury. Don’t romanticize how quickly you recovered when you were younger, it probably wasn’t enough time anyway. Recovery isn’t slacking; it is just smart practice.

In Your 60s & 70s

DON’T ACT YOUR

AGE

Your belief of what is possible or not possible will have a direct effect on your actions and your own chemistry. Putting self-limiting beliefs and societal views of what is “age appropriate” will create a self-fulfilling prophecy and stifle possibilities.

Incorporating these practices and changing your beliefs about what it means to grow older can have a dramatic impact on your health.

SET FUTURE GOALS

Learning a new language, going back to school and engaging in a new passion are just some ideas for goal setting. There is no time like the present and no reason not to continue to pursue things you love and discover new ones.

The Power of the Mindset

What and how you think about aging may be the more critical determinant of how you age. According to Dr. Mario Martinez, a clinical neuropsychologist who has studied healthy centenarians and supercentenarians (those over 110 years old), our personal beliefs on aging as well as societal messages can have a dramatic impact on our own biology.

Centenarians do not buy into societal and cultural ideas of what should or should not be expected as one gets older. Dr. Martinez asserts that these societal and self-imposed messages teach our nervous system, immune system and endocrine system to begin to break down. Expectations of decline are contributing to decline. Centenarians question these beliefs. They stay curious and continue to live fully and actively, following new pursuits and interests regardless of what society says.

LIVING WELL

Incorporating these practices and changing your beliefs about what it means to grow older can have a dramatic impact on your health. Growing older is different than aging. Dr. Martinez says, “Growing older is the passing of time; aging is what we do with the time based on cultural beliefs.” Question cultural beliefs and mindsets, keep moving, growing and doing to ensure vibrant years ahead.

6 Smart Practices at Any Age

1. Keep fit and stay active.

Staying active and fit provides cardiovascular benefits, preserves muscular and bone health, is a stress reliever and powerfully impacts brain health. Intense activity also releases the human growth hormone, which slows the aging process.

2. Drink water.

Chronic dehydration directly impacts every system in your body including your skin health, increasing wrinkling as well as skin conditions. Even slight dehydration will slow your metabolism and increase joint stiffness.

3. Eat organic whole foods.

Eating more fruits and vegetables while minimizing your exposure to pesticides, sulfites and preservatives in processed foods helps reduce the body’s inflammatory response and free radical damage.

4. Get quality sleep.

Few things have greater impact on healthy longevity than quality sleep. Sleep is the body’s prime time to repair, recover and detoxify. Mood, memory and metabolism are just a few things profoundly impacted by sleep or lack thereof.

5. Use the 80 percent rule.

Stopping before you are full and consuming less, but nutritionally dense, food can increase your lifespan.

6. Stay social.

Keeping strong social connections with friends who make you laugh is a steady rejuvenator for healthy longevity.

ASK THE EXPERT

QUICK TIPS FROM A LOCAL SPECIALIST

DIY: Dresser Transformation

BY DAISY WILLIS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY COLIN COLEMAN

CUCKOO 4 DESIGN

Making over a piece of furniture is an activity that does double duty: outfitting your home with something you really love and giving new life to an item that might otherwise end up in a landfill. If you’re not sure how to get started, Julia Konya of Cuckoo 4 Design has a wealth of advice, the product of countless DIY projects transforming ugly or boring furniture into clean, classy creations. Read on for tips that will empower you to tackle a piece that’s readily available and always necessary: the noble dresser.

Julia Konya

DIY Blogger

ASK THE EXPERT

Find a Good Piece

If you’ve been waking up to the sight of a drab, dingy, disappointing dresser every morning, there’s your target. Make it something that starts your day with a sense of pride. Otherwise, you can find good furniture, ready to be transformed, for a cheap price all over the Valley. Some of Konya’s favorite places to look are Craigslist and local auctions like Tom Hall Auctions in Schnecksville, where she got her solid-glass dining table for a mere $25. With such a little investment, you can feel comfortable experimenting. Konya’s jam is mid-century modern and the occasional French antique. It can take some Pinteresting and browsing blogs like Cuckoo 4 Design to get an eye for a dresser’s potential, but once you have that vision, you’ll be able to identify your dream dresser.

“ I’ve bought a dresser just for the hardware and chucked the dresser,”

Design Decisions

There are two basic ways to redo a dresser: play up the natural grain of the wood by refinishing it, or create a whole new look with paint. If wood is a look you love, find a nice wood grain and a fairly smooth surface. A gouged-up dresser can be disguised with patching and painting, not so much with stain. With a lot of dainty and whimsical scrolls and fluting, it will be much easier to paint than to refinish, since staining requires a thorough sanding of every surface. As for the color, keep it simple if you have a busy or cluttered space. That said, delve into the freedom of design!

Hardware

New handles on your old dresser can refresh it as quick as a wink, but if you love an incomplete set on an old heirloom, Konya recommends seeking out vintage hardware to match online. Finding the perfect set for a project can be super fun, especially on Etsy where small companies sell original hardware that far outstrips the stuff at big-box stores. Keep an eye out for hardware even if the rest of the piece isn’t to your liking: “I’ve bought a dresser just for the hardware and chucked the dresser,” Konya says. Tassels are a cute way to dress up your dresser’s handles, so check some out on Etsy while you’re there!

Tools of the Trade

To get started, you’ll want to assemble the right equipment for each step of the makeover. Konya let us in on her favorite stuff to use through each step of the project.

You’ll need sandpaper of various grits, and possibly a Dremel tool, if you’re bent on getting into a lot of little crevices. You can also use a very potent stripper and a toothbrush, but make sure you’re set up with hand and eye protection and a gas mask (not just a dust mask) to fend off the fumes.

From here, you can use a stain or get creative with paint colors. If the dresser is gouged and you’re planning to paint, patch it up with a filler like Wunderfil. Quality matters—some fillers won’t hide the marks as well. Then sand, use a degreaser to take dirt and grease off (Krud Kutter is one good choice), wipe with a tack cloth and apply a good primer like Kilz brand. The primer may end up grainy, and you can sand and wipe it down again.

Painting Pointers

Depending on the look you want, use oil-based paint (glossy) or latex paint with a varnish over it. Konya recommends Purdy brushes, and the quality matters. Cheap rollers aren’t as smooth and cheap brushes can leave bristles gunked into your paint job. There’s a reason some are labeled for oil-based or latex paints, too.

Chalk paint, is the easiest way to experiment with the rustic distressed look. In fact, you can make your own chalk paint by mixing dissolved plaster of Paris with latex paint, an especially fun option if you have some leftover paint colors from another project.

Paint remainders are also great if you want to get a little funky with your painting, like Konya’s dresser with a different shade of pink on each drawer. Keep an eye out for the paint-mixing messups that are sold at a discount at Home Depot. Go forth and turn some sad old dresser into a work of art!

cuckoo4design.com

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RETAILER Q&A

Donegal Square

PHOTOGRAPHY BY COLIN COLEMAN

Neville Gardner Owner

Neville Gardner opened Donegal Square in 1985 with the hopes of bringing Celtic culture to the Lehigh Valley. Since then, he has opened McCarthy’s Red Stag Pub & Whiskey Bar and helped launch the Celtic Classic festival. Between the traditional and innovative products he sells at the shop, the family recipes served at the pub and the celebrations that take place in Bethlehem every September, Gardner is helping members of the community connect with their Celtic roots.

How did the shop get started?

After my father was diagnosed with a terminal illness, I started Donegal Square in 1985 as a way for me to go back and forth across the Atlantic as part of a business. I was working as a civil engineer with a local consulting engineering company and needed the freedom to come and go on an as-needed basis. When I first came to the U.S. to live (following a transatlantic field hockey romance), I was drawn to the idea of importing things from Ireland and the U.K. that I missed and saw a need for in the U.S. Following a period of experimenting with importing tweeds and knitwear for wholesale, I realized there was potential for a business in the Lehigh Valley. The ultimate goal for my wife and I (I’m still married to

Linda Shay, who played goalie for the Lehigh Valley ladies team in the same tournament my team was at in Toronto back in 1978) was to create a comfortable, friendly, warm atmosphere with a rich cultural experience as if you were visiting Ireland.

Where did the name come from?

Donegal Square is named after the Georgian Square in the center of Belfast, where I worked for a year as a civil engineer after graduating from Queens University in Belfast. It seemed like the perfect name for a Celtic import business with an Irish and Northern Irish owner—not too cute but connecting with the purpose of the business.

What are some specialty items that are always kept in stock?

We provide quality traditional and innovative products from Ireland and the British Isles that are representative of the culture, craftsmanship and essence within the different regions in Ireland. We carry a great selection of traditional products such as fisherman knit sweaters, tweed accessories like caps and hats and scarves, Celtic jewelry, imported foods and handmade craft items like pottery, wall art and Celtic crosses. Through this product offering, we can hopefully help people discover their own heritage through the unique experience in our store and the education we provide on the products.

How do you go about sourcing the best products for local residents?

We attend trade shows across the “pond” and also visit many specialty vendors in Ireland and Scotland. Many of our vendors also fly here to visit us in our store in Bethlehem. Over the years, we have also sourced a vast array of products—made all over the world—that fit our niche via the Internet. We have great relationships with many vendors that allow us to offer outstanding customer service and product selection.

Describe the collaboration between Donegal Square and McCarthy’s Red Stag Pub & Whiskey Bar.

The concept of a Celtic Destination permits Donegal Square and the Red Stag Pub & Whiskey Bar (formerly Granny McCarthy’s Tea Room & Restaurant) to provide a full cultural experience in authenticity for our customers. For 16 years, I listened to people telling me how much they loved the food and atmosphere at the Tea Room but how much more they liked going into pubs in Ireland and Britain, so I decided to morph the

two together and provide a dining and entertainment venue that would replicate the experience back home. Our recipes are a blend of traditional and innovative Celtic dishes, providing options for everyone. Growing up, my mum and gran would fill our house with fresh-baked breads, cakes and scones made from the recipes passed down through the family and shared by friends. When my mum, Anne McCarthy, passed away, I found, in the handbag that she carried with her every day, handwritten copies of the family recipes that inspired McCarthy’s Red Stag Pub.

What role does the shop play in the Celtic Classic festival?

Shortly after opening Donegal Square, the concept of creating a Celtic festival in Bethlehem was presented to me by local businessman Bob Virgilio, who owns The Bethlehem Inn with his wife, Sue. I am proud of my heritage and have always had a strong desire to share my knowledge with the community. The opportunity to educate people about Celtic culture and Northern Ireland in particular got my attention. For years, I was frustrated by the negative connotation and misinformation about Northern Ireland and hoped this type of event would help opposing sides in Ireland. We need to celebrate each other’s cultures instead of fighting over them, in order to pay it forward and create a better society. I decided to throw my energy into starting a cultural event celebrating all Celtic culture, with the hope that somehow word would travel back home and it would improve the situation in Northern Ireland. This festival is truly about experiencing the Celtic culture through a

variety of activities, music, food, performances and crafts. Donegal Square has been helping support, promote, develop and market Celtic Classic and the Celtic Cultural Alliance since its inception in 1987.

What is the best way to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in the Lehigh Valley?

Visit Bethlehem and enjoy the Parade of Shamrocks on the Saturday before March 17, and, of course, visit the shop and pub for all the best products, foods, drinks, music, culture and atmosphere. You can stay in the loop by following our website and Facebook pages.

534 Main St., Bethlehem 610.861.7631 | donegalsquare.com

THE VALLEY’S MOST INTRIGUING

Peter C. Cilio

Creative Director of Campania International

BY AMY UNGER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY COLIN COLEMAN

The day that the Campania International catalog arrives in the mail must be akin to Christmas morning for purveyors of home and garden goods. Of course, this is no ordinary catalog; it’s more like the Sears Wish Book of decorative accents. Hardbound and weighty with importance, it’s stuffed with hundreds of pages of glossy photographs featuring fountains, benches, pots, planters and statues galore that range from opulent to whimsical. Some are dripping in Technicolor hues—bold blues and fiery reds—while others boast of stately stone or subdued, earthen tones.

The catalog is also the culmination of countless hours of research, planning and designing for Peter C. Cilio, the creative director at Campania, which has been designing and manufacturing its wares for independent garden centers throughout the country since 1983. Its manufacturing facility in Pennsburg now employs some 100 people—an assemblage of artisans, craftsmen and constructors. “We try to be a one-stop shop for our customers,” Cilio says. And to think it all started in a building not much larger than the average shed.

INSIGHT

Cilio’s father, Peter Cilio, Sr., immigrated to the U.S. from Italy as a young man in the 1940s and eventually settled his family in Philadelphia. He was a contractor by trade but always had an interest in gardening. In 1972, he founded Peter’s Home and Garden Center in Quakertown. “It was just a little eight-by-ten building,” Cilio recalls. His father specialized in the import of handmade terracotta pieces from Italy. “At that time, it was hard to find good-quality European terracotta pieces,” says Cilio. “You couldn’t really find it anywhere else.”

The business quickly grew in size and popularity when the elder Cilio decided to venture into wholesale, distributing the terracotta pieces to garden centers along the East Coast. In 1983, a new company, Campania Imports (later Campania International), became a reality—the name comes from the region in Italy where the elder Cilio was born. Eventually, he began making his own goods, starting with a line of cast stone products.

Churning out such a plethora of new products is a delicate balancing act of maintaining the Campania style that blends Old World traditions with contemporary American taste,

From an early age, Cilio and his three siblings pitched in to help the family trade thrive. But, while Cilio says he’s always had an interest in gardening, art and architecture—he was an art history minor at the University of Pennsylvania— when it came time to carve out his own career, he went in a different direction. “I practiced law for 13 years,” he says. That changed in 1998, after he had a conversation with his father. “He made me an offer I couldn’t refuse,” he recalls with a laugh.

The family sold the business in 2000, and Cilio’s father died in 2008. While his siblings are now pursuing other ventures, Cilio has stayed on board at Campania as creative director. His main focus is on product development and creation. He and his team are responsible for coming up with about 250 new products a year that will catch the eye of independent garden centers (Campania typically doesn’t sell to bigbox stores). It’s no easy feat, so Cilio is always on the hunt for inspiration. “I’m always looking, always thinking,” he says. “If I take a trip, I’ll find an antique place that I like.” He travels to Asia twice a year, where Campania’s Pacifica collection is made.

Churning out such a plethora of new products is a delicate balancing act of maintaining the Campania style that blends Old World traditions with contemporary American taste, while also understanding the wants and needs of a wide

Ashley Russo

Mike Mittman

customer base that extends across North America. “Styles are different. To be successful, you have to think about how you can appeal to different tastes,” Cilio says. “What’s appropriate for Florida might not be appropriate for Oregon.” And Cilio is constantly trolling magazines and newspapers to stay on top of the current trends. He recalls that the company’s line of mythical statues—think dragons, wizards, castles and gargoyles—was wildly popular in the heyday of Harry Potter.

Of course, coming up with the idea is only half the battle. “Some things never make it off the drawing board,” says Cilio. But once a design does get the green light, Cilio and his team have to bring it to life in 3D form. Cilio is also in charge of the mold-making department, and he works with a variety of sculptors, woodworkers and other artists to refine and execute the design concepts. When asked to name his favorite Campania creation, Cilio says he can’t pick just one. “It’s kind of like having to choose among your children,” he says. But Cilio has no problem pinpointing what it is that puts a spring in his step while he’s on the job. “I like creating and problem solving. Creating something on paper and marshaling it through the process.”

The payoff is seeing Campania’s products in countless homes, businesses and showrooms across the country, knowing that his father’s vision was the catalyst for the company’s continued success and legacy of satisfied customers.

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ENJOYING THE GOOD LIFE LOCALLY

4 Valley BYOBs

BY CARRIE HAVRANEK PHOTOGRAPHY BY COLIN COLEMAN

Although Pennsylvania has made some strides in terms of alcohol regulations—beer and wine at supermarkets!—it’s still a costly endeavor for a restaurant to obtain a liquor license. As a result, BYOBs have a special following here, encouraging a loyal cadre of diners who specifically seek out eateries that allow them bring their own. The appeal is multifaceted, as it can be more economical, but many folks just prefer to tote their favorite liquids to dinner. Here are four Valley favorites, but there are far, far more.

Tre Scalini

Tre Scalini, an old-world, old-school Italian dining experience, is a hidden gem. Robyn and Santo Ingarao run a warm, cozy dinner-only spot in an old Colonial home with a handful of tables and a strong following. It’s not a red-and-white checkered tablecloth kind of place; you’ll find polished dishes that suggest a fresh, more continental experience. Tre Scalini, which opened in 2006, also happens to be the rare finedining locale (“smart casual” is the dress code) that doesn’t have a liquor license. Reservations are a necessity on the weekends. Insiders like the barbecued octopus, marinated in olive oil and seasoned with mint, lemon zest and oregano.

221 E. Broad St., Bethlehem | 610.419.1619

Jasmine Japanese and Thai Restaurant

Jasmine is one those wildly popular, pan-Asian hybrid restaurants with Chinese, Japanese and Thai dishes, meaning there’s a surfeit of choices, including sushi and hibachi. Since many of these places don’t have liquor licenses, Jasmine allows guests to bring their favorite beer or wine to pair with sushi, sashimi or curry. Jasmine’s flavorful fare and extensive, specialty sushi roll list set it apart (people love the surf and turf roll). On the weekend, Jasmine becomes lively and loaded with locals and college students alike,

and does a robust takeout business with a 30-minute wait for food, standard. For dinner and a show, opt to sit on the hibachi side. The entire menu is available there too, even if you’re the only person in your party who wants sushi. If you prefer the dining room, hibachi can be brought out there, too.

1855 Sullivan Trail, Easton

610.438.8811 | jasminesushiandthai.com

El Paisano Taqueria

This bright, vivid spot run by Miguel and Virginia Sosa earns raves for its fresh, hearty portions of homemade Mexican fare at affordable prices. Case in point: The priciest item is $11 for a steak dish. Sip on cerveza or vino with some homemade tortilla chips and pico de gallo to get started. Tacos, tortas and tostadas can all be served with a wide variety of meat selections, from pork, steak and chicken to chorizo, al pastor (marinated pork with pineapple), lengua (cow tongue) and tripa (cow tripe, or stomach). The Sosas’ homemade hot sauce brings the heat, so don’t say we didn’t warn you.

22 E. Union Blvd., Bethlehem | 610.694.9326

ElPaisanoTaqueria.bethlehem

Switchback Pizza

Switchback isn’t the average pizza joint. It’s located next to train tracks and uses an enormous Italian wood oven. The owners, Marguerite Viola and Andrew Foreman, source locally for seasonal ingredients to top their Neapolitan-style pies (along with the good stuff, San Marzano tomatoes). Switchback also happens to be located in a craft beverage paradise, within paces of Funk Brewing Company, Yergey Nano-Brewery and Triple Sun Spirits. This proximity benefits everyone, as you’ll often see its food offered at these other locations. Viola says they keep growlers (and half growlers) on hand for folks who come in and don’t know there are breweries nearby. The opposite is also true. “I’ve had lots of customers tell me they come to Emmaus to do a walking brewery tour and stop in to get pizza at some point during the day,” she says.

525 Jubilee St., Emmaus

610.928.0641 | switchbackpizza.com

BYOB

Tips & Tricks

Call ahead and ask what the BYOB policy is, whether there’s a limit to how much alcohol you can bring, and if there’s a corkage fee, which typically covers pouring, mixers and chilling beverages, where appropriate.

Chill your beverage beforehand and transport it in an insulated wine or beer bag with a leakproof, resealable cap, in case of any leftovers.

Sign your name. If your wine bottle is sitting in a communal ice bucket, put your initials on the bottle so you know it’s yours.

Unless you know the menu ahead of time or don’t particularly care if your beverage will elegantly pair with the food, stick with wines and beers that go with everything.

Expect to pour your own wine (especially if there’s no corkage fee), but leave the bottle and tip well.

OU TOF THE BOX

A House for an Active Family Unites

Modern Design and California Cool

“Playful and bright” is how architect Maria Diaz-Joves of a423 Architecture and Design in Hellertown describes the house she designed for this young professional couple with two preschool-aged daughters.

BY THERESE CIESINSKI

PHOTOS BY RYAN HULVAT

They had read “Playing With Space” in Lehigh Valley Style’s March 2013 issue, about a house Diaz-Joves designed in Bath, and liked her aesthetic.

Playful isn’t a word ordinarily applied to structures bigger than a tree house. Yet, even in this neighborhood on the outskirts of Allentown, with its variety of home styles—stone farmhouses, barn conversions, ‘70s ranches—this house is far from ordinary.

It rises streamlined and angled from the soft contours of the landscape. A flat roof with a deep overhang caps the center of the structure, painted a vivid spring green. Windows large and small punctuate the facade. These bold elements make for a house that is neither shy, nor retiring. It’s a house “people either like or they don’t,” owners Jack and Marcie say.

At first glance, the house appears unadorned, even sparse, but closer inspection reveals natural materials full of warmth and nuance. “This house combines the texture and color of reclaimed wood, the natural look of concrete and the strength and crispiness of steel,” Diaz-Joves says. “I like using materials that are beautiful on their own so there is no need to embellish them.”

Architect and builder decided, instead of plain concrete walls, to pour the wet concrete into a form made from lumber.

Jack and Marcie are avid runners and cyclists, and the decision to build started with their desire for a gym. They had read “Playing With Space” in Lehigh Valley Style’s March 2013 issue, about a house Diaz-Joves designed in Bath, and liked her aesthetic. The couple first met with the architect and builder Dave East of HFS Group over a bottle of wine. Three hours later, they knew this was their design/build team.

They found a location on the outskirts of Allentown— close to their families, with lots of opportunities for outdoor pursuits. However, the 1.2-acre property had problems, enough to scare away less determined buyers. Overhead power lines that ran through the center of the triangular lot and a neighbor’s septic system had to be relocated before Diaz-Joves could start designing. It was almost 18 months before construction began.

“Not everyone has that time frame—to find a lot, go through the design process, shovel in and then a house,” Diaz-Joves says. “Most people aren’t prepared to wait that long. The homeowners were very disciplined and organized. They knew what they wanted and made decisions quickly.”

Once the lot was cleared and prepared, the process accelerated. “They gave me a lot of design freedom,” she says. “They didn’t say, ‘We want the bedroom there,’ they

said, ‘We want to see the sun come up in the morning.’ They understood how they wanted to live.”

Her design is four side-by-side “boxes,” each a different material, to create depth and delineate space. The main living area and second floor are green fiber-cement panels, the kids/guest wing is clad in cedar and the foyer, office and powder room are board form concrete. Peeking from behind is a three-car garage sheathed in standing seam metal roofing. Diaz-Joves incorporated some of these materials into the interior to link indoors and out.

Adding interest and texture to the concrete walls was particularly challenging. Architect and builder decided, instead of plain concrete walls, to pour the wet concrete into a form made from lumber, so it would take on the wood’s grain and striations. Neither had tried the technique before, and they weren’t sure how it would turn out—given the inherent “unpredictability,” as Diaz-Joves likes to say, of concrete. The results were exactly what they hoped for.

The main living space includes a two-story, open concept living and dining area. The couple entertains often and wanted to maximize flow, even with a crowd. Private spaces face the backyard, while the kitchen and office look towards the road.

Off this main living area lies a large deck sheltered by a ten-foot roof overhang, allowing the family to enjoy the space in all weather. The back of the house has a southern exposure. Diaz-Joves determined the angle of the sun when siting the house, to ensure that the overhang shades the interior in summer, keeping it cool. In winter, when the sun is lower, its warming rays spill into the house.

Diaz-Joves believes no place in a house should ever be off-limits or reserved for special occasions, and that coming home should be as pleasurable for the occupants as it is for guests. She sited the entrance from the garage near the front door, so the family enters the same space, and, therefore, has the same experience as visitors do when they arrive.

Exposed steel girders in the main living space sport orange-red paint. The owners love California, and were engaged overlooking the Golden Gate Bridge. A friend brought back paint chips from the bridge, which they matched for the beams.

Instead of upper kitchen cabinets, the owners opted for windows. The cabinets are Ikea boxes, with drawers instead of doors, and wood fronts from Semi Handmade. They’re topped by butcher-block counters from Bally Block. The swirls and curves of the tiles behind the Thermador range are a deliberate counterpoint to the house’s many straight lines.

The focal point of the space is a dramatic 12-foot table on a scissor lift, designed and built by Diaz-Joves. The homeowners asked for an adjustable table rather than an island. With the turn of a wheel, it changes from dining, to counter, to bar height.

Off the kitchen, behind a rolling barn door made from reclaimed wood, is the “kids’ wing.” There’s a guest room, a shared bath and two intentionally small bedrooms, so as they grow, their daughters will prefer to play and hang out in the main space, rather than isolate themselves in their rooms.

The staircase is a custom design by Diaz-Joves, whose steelwork has become a trademark. “Maria welded the staircase in the driveway,” says Jack. The balusters echo the curves of a bike rack, an intentional nod to the family’s passions. She also designed the removable plywood baby gates.

On the second floor, a catwalk leads to the master bedroom and rooftop deck with a garden planted in succulents and grasses. The vegetation adds an additional layer of protection to the membrane of the flat roof, and provides extra insulation to the kids’ wing below.

The master bedroom has bamboo floors—copied from their favorite California hotel—and a wall of internal windows that help transmit light into the interior. Unobtrusive roller shades provide privacy. The exterior windows are placed so that when lying in bed, the owners see the treetops and sky, but not neighboring structures. “It feels like you’re surrounded by nature,” says Marcie.

“The placement of the windows looks random from outside, and at first I wasn’t sure I liked it,” she continues. “But once inside, it totally makes sense.” They hide views of the busy road and other houses where necessary, which makes the house seem more secluded than it is. A window in the powder room is even placed low, for the dog’s benefit.

In the master bath, there’s a nine-foot-long poured concrete counter with a trough sink made by Solid Rock Concrete. The cabinets are Ikea boxes with doors sliced from a single length of reclaimed wood. Slate floors are from a quarry in Wind Gap. “I like using natural materials—they age well, and the look is timeless,” Diaz-Joves says. The freestanding tub is American Standard.

The gym on the lower level—the room that started it all—has a rubber floor and plywood walls that can handle the dings and dents bulky sports equipment dishes out. A metal and glass garage door can be raised to bring the outdoors in. Also on this level are a family room, a small storage room and a wine cellar.

The owners...were engaged overlooking the Golden Gate Bridge. A friend brought back paint chips from the bridge, which they matched for the beams

Radiant heat tubes wind under the concrete floors on all the three levels, run by a geothermal system. The bill for both electric and gas averages about $200 month for the 3,050-square-foot house.

“Green” building is a popular selling point, and architects boast about maximizing solar gain, using recycled and repurposed materials, or installing energy-efficient heating and cooling. Diaz-Joves does all the above, yet doesn’t make a big deal out of it. “I don’t like labeling my buildings ‘green,’” she says. “Sustainability should be the standard on a well-designed building. A house should be comfortable, healthy and efficient without depending solely on the mechanical system.”

“The house fits our lifestyle,” says Marcie. “It works perfectly for everyday life. No space goes unused. We planned the house around what we love to do, and planned for it to function for our family as time goes on.”

Which is just as Diaz-Joves intended. “There is emotion attached to a house,” she says. “It’s not like designing a commercial or public space. It’s a responsibility. The decisions I make are in the homeowners’ lives every day. I love seeing what a house turns out to be once people are living in it.”

And she’s had lots of opportunities to do so. The working experience was positive for both sides, so much so that DiazJoves and builder Dave East remain regular guests. Jack says, “We built a house together and we’re still friends.”

The homeowners asked for an adjustable table rather than an island. With the turn of a wheel, it changes from dining, to counter, to bar height.

Whether you’re an HGTV junkie or a This Old House O.G., you doubtless know that every home is a work in progress—and that there’s always room for improvement.

From full-featured additions and revolutionary renovations to cutting-edge upgrades with luxurious amenities, no matter what you have in mind, the sheer variety of talented designers, builders and contractors in the Lehigh Valley means that the only limit is your imagination. Read on to find out how these professionals can help you fall in love with your home all over again.

Interested in being included in our next Professional Profile section? Call 484.546.0408 for more information.

AFFORDABLE CLOSETS PLUS LLC

Affordable Closets Plus has over 22 years of experience designing and installing custom storage solutions and cabinetry for residential and commercial properties. Their mission is to make the most use of space, using an eye for design and the finest materials at affordable prices. Whether using a standard option or a fine-cabinetry solution, every space is custom designed to meet the client’s needs, lifestyle and budget. Because they do their own manufacturing, their capabilities are unlimited. Dream it and Affordable Closets Plus can build it.

Besides closets, they design and build custom cabinetry, laundry rooms, home offices, mud rooms, garages, entertainment centers and more.

EASTERN SURFACES, INC.

Eastern Surfaces offers the widest selection of countertop options in the area. Serving Eastern Pennsylvania and beyond for over 25 years, clients can choose from a vast array of granite, marble, quartz, solid surface and more to complete a kitchen, bath, office or outdoor project. Finish the look with a sink, faucet and tile from Eastern as well. For every taste, budget and application, Eastern Surfaces is the go-to source.

Remember, when it’s time to think countertops, think Eastern Surfaces. Convenient Allentown showroom hours are Mon.–Fri. 8 a.m.–4:30 p.m. and Sat. 9 a.m.–1 p.m.

EAST ROCK CONSTRUCTION LLC

East Rock Construction is a dedicated, hard-working, family-owned and -operated business serving residential homes and commercial industries of the Lehigh Valley and surrounding areas. ERC is a multiple award winner through the LVBA. The team is committed to superior quality to get their customers the results they deserve. No job too big, no job too small. The team specializes in basement, kitchen and bath remodeling, building new homes, as well as outdoor projects from decking, door installation and excavation work. East Rock Construction promises quality construction, honest service and great value. Small enough to listen, big enough to deliver!

PHANTOM SCREENS

By Innovative Home Products

For 20 years, Neil and Michelle Hollis, owners of Innovative Home Products, have been quietly working behind the scenes to revolutionize the way homes and businesses are screened. “Behind the scenes” may be a bit of an understatement: the whole idea behind their retractable screens for doors, windows and large openings is to not be seen.

Phantom Screens can be customized and adapted to a variety of applications. They are the perfect screening solution for any entry door and, at the touch of a button, Phantom’s Executive Screens can transform a porch or patio into a screened-in, outdoor living space.

From the very beginning, the corporate motto has been “Treat the customer the way you would want to be treated yourself.” It’s simple: provide a great product at the quoted price, installed on the scheduled date and done professionally. This has resulted in more than 90 percent of Phantom Screens’ sales having been sourced from repeat customers and customer referrals, and from the industry professionals with whom they work.

Innovative Home Products will be displaying Phantom Screens at the Pennsylvania Home Show at the State Farm Show Complex in Harrisburg from March 16–19, and at the Spring Home Show at Stabler Arena, Lehigh University, from March 31–April 2.

GRAND CONSTRUCTION AND MANAGEMENT, INC.

BELLA CASA KITCHEN & BATH

Bella Casa Kitchen & Bath is a family-owned and -operated home remodeling firm specializing in kitchen, bath and basement design and remodeling. Homeowners can be sure that their project will be owner-supervised from start to finish, because Bella Casa handles everything, from the initial design and material selection to in-house installation. Bella Casa provides a large array of custom and semi-custom, quality products to create designs that will perfectly fit any lifestyle.

Homeowners working with Bella Casa get more than the space of their dreams; they work with a team of designers and contractors who treat a home as they would their own, and treat homeowners like family. Bella Casa’s team is there every step of the way, suggesting ideas and providing inspiration to ensure the new or renovated room is both functional and beautiful. Whether it’s a kitchen designed to match the look and feel of a stately old home or a contemporary bath in a new home, Bella Casa has the experience, expertise and attention to detail to turn a less than perfect space into one that anyone would be happy to call their own.

Bella Casa’s expertise doesn’t end in the kitchen and bath! Visit their gallery showroom for inspiration on home offices, custom closets, built-ins, entertainment centers and more!

K&H CUSTOM WINDOW TREATMENTS

K&H Custom Window Treatments has been beautifying the windows of homes for almost 30 years. Their story begins with hard work, perseverance and an amazing mom. Sandy Kuhns and her mother, Norma Heller, began their business with $500 and a well-worn sewing machine. Today, the company remains a family business, run by President Sandy Kuhns and her brothers, Craig and Mark Heller.

K&H’s talented window treatment designers create custom looks tailored to fit any home. Custom draperies and top treatments are available in a variety of styles, from elegantly simple to formal. Any type or style of fabric window treatments can be designed and made in the K&H workroom.

They also offer a wide selection of blinds, shades and shutters with many additional features, from light control and privacy to energy efficiency. Everything is professionally measured and custom ordered for each home or business.

K&H Custom Window Treatments will oversee any project from initial design to installation. Contact the Trexlertown showroom to see how K&H Custom Window Treatments can assist any project. Take a guided tour through unique home décor, browse beautiful samples of K&H’s work, peruse fabric books, blinds and shade samples and find answers to any question.

candles

LEHIGH VALLEY CENTENARIANS

BY KRISTEN RINALDI | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANDREW TOMASINO

R UT H K . VA N LEER

What advice would you give to someone in their twenties?

I would tell them to first go to school and get an excellent education. Then, get a good job so you can take care of yourself and your loved ones. Work hard but also be sure to take vacation, travel and discover all the wonderful experiences that this world offers. Be healthy. If someone offers you a cigarette, just say “NO.” When you encounter difficulties and life gets tough, keep on pushing forward— never give up. Have fun.

What is your proudest accomplishment?

Working as a timekeeper at the Sunoco Marcus Hook refinery. When WWII began and the men were enlisting into the service, the refinery needed women to take [what were] traditionally men’s jobs. I applied right away and was hired as the refinery timekeeper. My girlfriends at the refinery and I were proud to be the first women at the refinery in these new roles and proud to make our contributions to the war

While the thought of growing old is frightening to some, it is often said that the alternative is much worse. To reach 100 is an extraordinary gift, and those who do it usually have equally extraordinary stories to tell.

Meet Ruth, Elizabeth, Angie and Theresa, four captivating women who prove that 100 is a milestone worth celebrating.

effort. I never looked back, and I worked at the refinery for over ten years until my daughter was born.

What do you like to do in your free time?

When I was younger, I liked many activities that are not possible for me to do now. I bowled with several teams, spent weekends at the Jersey shore, walked for exercise and traveled all over the USA and in Italy with family and friends.

I still like to do cryptograms. Every day, I solve the Philadelphia Inquirer cryptogram. A fellow at the refinery showed me how to do them. When I moved to Allentown, I taught my daughter. Now, we work on the daily cryptogram together. I am good getting them started and she helps with the longer words.

I also like to walk as much as I can and ride the exercycle several times a week. I join in Country Meadows activities—exercise classes, weekly bingo, singing hymns, music performances in the living room. I like to go on the special trips that Country Meadows organizes—lunch out at local restaurants, day at the seashore, trips to the Sands in Bethlehem, Kutztown festival, museum visits, to name a few.

Do you have any vices?

I have always enjoyed going to the casino. I like playing the slots. When AC opened casinos, I took bus trips for the day. I also vacationed in Las Vegas. Now, I go to the Sands on a Country Meadows trip or with my daughter. I also like to bet on the horses. When I lived in Springfield, my friends and I would go to Delaware Park every week for lunch and horse racing during the summer season.

Do you have any regrets?

I regret that I can’t drive a car anymore. Ever since you could buy new cars again after WWII, I had many Chevrolets— a beautiful two-toned 1957 Chevy, some Oldsmobiles and my last car was a Buick. My driver’s license was good until I turned 100, but when I moved to Allentown at 98, I sold my car and stopped driving. I loved the freedom to jump into the car and go shopping or just for a ride. Now, I go on the Saturday morning country ride in the van, and my daughter drives me around too.

Ruth K. Van Leer

Do you have any favorite quotes? “I shall pass this way but once; any good that I can do or any kindness I can show; let me do it now. For I shall not pass this way again.

”

What was your greatest love? My daughter.

She is my only child and was born when I was just about 40 years old. She lives just a few minutes away. Now that she has retired from her job, we go shopping, out to lunch, take trips back to Springfield and just spend time together. She joins me on many of the Country Meadows special trips. We are both having fun.

Angela V. Fleck

WES TMINSTER VILLAGE, ALLENTOWN

What

advice

would you

give to

someone in their

twenties?

Stay in the United States because there are more opportunities to become who you want to be.

What is your proudest accomplishment? Meeting and getting to know my sister Theresa. We have been attached ever since.

(Theresa lived with their grandparents in Austria until she was 13.)

What do you like to do in your free time? I don’t have a lot of free time, but I enjoy talking to people.

Do you have any regrets? I regret nothing and think everyone should take on as many opportunities that come their way.

What was your greatest love? babies.

Do you have any favorite quotes? I always say we would need two more lives to live in order to accomplish everything we want.

Do you have any vices? No. I always tried to put others straight and not do anything dumb.

BO RN IN: 1913

E li zabet h Feg l ey

What advice would you give to someone in their twenties?

You should have respect for everybody. When we respect one another, we get along with each other better. People should obey their parents and listen to their parents. They should do good in school and educate themselves. When they get an opportunity to get a good education, take it. Don’t be lazy; go to work. Don’t expect your parents to take care of you all the time; help to take care of your parents. Kids today think parents have to do everything for them. Even after they are married, they expect them to help. All my children have graduated from college; my two granddaughters graduated summa cum laude, one from Virginia Tech and the other from James Madison [University]. One is a lawyer and the other a CPA in Washington.

Do you have any vices?

Food, a good glass of wine and good friends. I hate clothing shopping but love food shopping.

What is your proudest accomplishment? Having my son. He played baseball for a year with the St. Louis Cardinals. When he was going to college the first year, the Boston Red Sox asked him to sign up but I wouldn’t sign the papers. I wanted him to go to college. At Penn State he was an All-American in baseball.

THE DAVID A. MILLER PERSONAL CARE COMMUNITY, PHOEBE, ALLENTOWN BORN IN: 1914

What do you like to do in your free time?

My hobby was reading. I liked history, especially books about Native Americans in the United States. I played cards. Pinochle is interesting. You had to think. I am not reading as much [anymore], except large print and about three to eight pages at a time. I liked to go out to eat with friends—have a good meal and a good drink. But, friends are all gone and I’m still here. I never cared for bingo but it is a good pastime here at Phoebe. You don’t have to think with bingo. I like Miller Time (which is a social hour in the Miller Building) when we get together and talk about different things. It usually relates to a holiday and how it started. I like the discussions we have. I still learn how different we all are.

Do you have any favorite quotes?

Be true to yourself. When I say something, it’s truthful; I’m not making up a story. I don’t like lies…they have very short legs.

What was your greatest love?

All my friends going out together, having food and good drinks. FOOD. Risotto is my favorite, with spinach or asparagus… best of all was with chicken livers sautéed in onions. I never used a lot of spices except my own sage plant. I like zinfandel, Chianti and Italian food. Recipes were all in our head—they were not written down.

Do you have any regrets?

No. I didn’t do anything to have regrets. If you behave yourself, do the right thing and mind your own business, you won’t have regrets. If anybody asked me for advice, I’d tell them to do your own thinking and do your own thing. Otherwise, it will be my fault. Think for yourself.

Senior Living

PROFESSIONAL PROFILES

Getting older doesn’t mean slowing down! Looking to stay active and live comfortably in your golden years? Read on to find out how these local businesses are helping seniors in the Lehigh Valley to maintain their independence as they age with grace and style.

Interested in being included in our next Professional Profile section? Call 484.546.0408 for more information.

SENIOR SOLUTIONS A

Senior Solutions has been in business in the Lehigh Valley for over 25 years. Serving families throughout the Greater Lehigh Valley, they provide NonMedical Home Care that includes a Certified Dementia Care Trainer as well as Certified Care Management services. Non-Medical Home Care provides assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing, meal preparation, laundry and light housekeeping, medication reminders as well as transportation and socialization. Senior Solutions’ goal is to provide personal attention to keep a family member safe at home. Families can continue their busy lives with peace of mind knowing that Senior Solutions is caring for their loved one. Care Managers,

Division of Morning Star Senior Living

certified members of the Aging Life Care™ Association, provide consultation services that assist families with planning for the future. Senior Solutions professionals will implement plans for preventing and managing crisis situations, navigate the health care system, evaluate living options, attend doctor appointments, manage medications and act as the family’s advocate. If placement advice is needed, Senior Solutions will make recommendations to facilities that match the family’s needs and assist with that transition. Senior Solutions helps put families and their loved ones on the road to a future where they can experience life’s beautiful milestones. Finding solutions is their specialty.

FELLOWSHIP COMMUNITY

When one lives at Fellowship Community, they enjoy loving friends, great opportunities, spiritual guidance and the best health care all on one beautiful campus. The vibrant community offers a variety of concerts, interesting speakers, challenging games and classes on everything from painting to computer skills. Day trips to museums, sporting events and entertainment venues as well as extended vacations with transportation are available for those who enjoy adventure.

The resident restaurant, the Villa Café, offers fine dining entrées in a relaxed setting for the enjoyment of campus friends and their guests.

An accessible park featuring a peaceful pond and waterfall allows residents to enjoy nature while strolling through campus.

As a continuing care retirement facility, Fellowship Community features independent living, personal care, a nursing care center, post-acute care and memory support. Residents can feel confident knowing that when their care needs change, they’re living at the right place.

Come to Fellowship Community and notice the difference. Everything they do is centered on showing the Love of Christ. The caring and cheerful atmosphere offers something for everyone.

For additional information, visit fellowshipcommunity.com or call 610.799.3000.

SENIOR MOVES BY DESIGN

For 55+ Boomers (and beyond), getting older means that needs change, which often means living spaces need to change, too. Some people prefer moving to a senior community designed for accessibility. Others prefer modifying an existing home. Either way, Senior Moves by Design is the Lehigh Valley’s leading expert in planning just the right living spaces for seniors.

Senior Move Management: For those looking to move, they design floor plans to determine what fits, help identify treasures, professionally pack the entire home and provide a full unpack—in as little as one day. By dinnertime, clients will find their beds are made, kitchen and baths organized and computers and TVs are working.

Cleanout & Staging: To maximize the financial return from a home sale, they help sell excess furnishings, clear out clutter, supervise repairs, update the home’s appearance and can professionally stage it for a quick sale.

Aging-in-Place: For those wanting to stay put, they redesign spaces to eliminate issues and to create new opportunities for freedom. Options include stair-glides, step-in showers, designer grab bars, more reachable closets and cabinets and more.

Call for a free 60-minute, in-home consultation to learn how to live better.

610.295.0036 | seniormovesbydesign.com

COUNTRY MEADOWS

Retirement Communities

From independent living, assisted living and personal care to specialized memory care (even 24-hour skilled nursing care in Bethlehem), Country Meadows has many affordable options for its residents—all on vibrant campuses with activities, social events and individualized services. They offer premier all-rental apartment-style, all-inclusive retirement living with no buy-in fee. They’re pet friendly and welcome couples to live together, no matter their level of care.

Residents enjoy restaurant-style dining room service, housekeeping, maintenance, transportation and more. Remaining active with social programming, residents take pleasure in resident-led clubs, fitness classes, outings and cultural and educational programs. Their beautiful campuses have the amenities to enable a carefree lifestyle, allowing residents to appreciate the dignity of personalized living, while feeling secure knowing that supportive services are available when needed.

Over 50 years ago, the late Pennsylvania Gov. George M. Leader and his family began their commitment to helping older adults maintain and enjoy personal independence and the highest possible quality of life. In 1982, the Leader family founded Country Meadows Retirement Communities, which has grown to 11 campuses in Pennsylvania and one in Maryland. Operating in the Lehigh Valley since 1987, Country Meadows opened its third location in the area, Country Meadows of Forks in Easton, in 2016. This campus is on 21 acres of rolling countryside tucked into a quiet neighborhood in Forks Township with convenient access to favorite Lehigh Valley and western New Jersey entertainment, shopping and recreational destinations.

Country Meadows remains owned and managed by the Leader family. This family environment allows the residents to feel at home and makes co-workers proud to serve and care for the residents, every day. Call today to schedule a personalized visit to get a feel for Country Meadows, too.

Country Meadows of Allentown

Country Meadows of Bethlehem

NOW OPEN: Country Meadows of Forks in Easton

Winning kitchens

Every year, builders from all across the area submit their finest work to the Lehigh Valley Builders Association in hopes of being recognized amongst their peers and accepting awards that will set them apart from the rest. This year, these five kitchens were touted as some of the best, as each of their creators took home honors in Builder, Remodeler and Specialty categories.

kitchen to $50k

barn wood marries marble

For this family of serious chefs, the kitchen needed to be more than just a gathering place. They turned to Jill Jarrett Design, LLC to create a space that would be as functional as it was inviting. The crowded table space was remedied by adding an island, allowing for more counter space and storage. Organizing accessories was made simple by the addition of roll outs, a double trash pullout and tray storage, and a recessed marble niche behind the cook top (which matches the backsplash) ensured essentials would always be in reach. The perimeter cabinetry and pantry closet door were reconfigured using reclaimed barn wood, while the countertops were made from hand-distressed soapstone, guaranteeing durability.

Jill Jarrett Design, LLC

610.972.5218

jarrettdesignllc.com

Photos by Matt Villano Photography

With adult children in the area—and a growing number of grandchildren—this couple wanted to be able to host their family during holidays and special occasions. They asked studio26 homes to renovate four separate spaces into two. The dining room and living room were transformed into a formal dining room, and the former kitchen and sunroom merged to become a spacious kitchen and breakfast nook area. The vision for the kitchen was French Provincial aesthetic, a quality that was accomplished via the custom cabinetry and five-piece crown moldings, mirroring existing parts of the home. The decision to mix paint with stained cabinetry was a risky one that turned out to be magic. This magic was accompanied by function, evident in the accessory hideouts, pop-up electrical towers, hidden coffee station and concealed TV area.

studio26 homes

610.391.0100

studio26homes.com

Photos by Chuck Hamilton

These homeowners requested a large, well-equipped, functional kitchen space, and Brader’s Woodcraft, Inc., exceeded their expectations. The renovation included a 23’x9’ addition with vaulted ceilings and four skylights. The new kitchen houses two islands, four different cabinet finishes and several countertop selections, each complementing each other perfectly. The main island’s cabinetry was constructed using cherry wood with dark java stain, while the second island was painted black. The large custom, built-in corner cabinet was painted a medium gray tone. Each color creates its own point of interest. The main island and perimeter countertops are a white quartzite with a soft gray veined pattern. The black island was given a black granite countertop with a gray-and-white veined pattern. The kitchen backsplash received dark gray slate tiles in a herringbone pattern, while the floor was given a rustic cherry hardwood with a natural clear varnish. Over the main island, two Art Deco-style hanging lights complete the look.

Brader’s Woodcraft, Inc. 610.262.3452

Photos by Tom Gutekundst

When S & D Renovations, Inc., first encountered this kitchen, it was literally falling apart: doors and drawers were missing, appliances were not functioning and the Formica countertops were delaminating. This contemporary home needed a kitchen that would complement its overall feel. S & D Renovations, Inc., crafted a minimalist’s dream-come-true kitchen. The cramped laundry room space was relocated, and a small closet space was opened up to become the kitchen’s bar area. The large wood beam, installed by the previous owners, was removed and replaced with a new engineered flush beam and opened the views to the existing window wall overlooking Jordan Creek. Rift-cut cabinetry and stunning countertops now blend seamlessly with the vintage lighting, highlighting the qualities of the kitchen.

Photos by Chuck Hamilton

This family wanted a space to support their three growing boys, and LIV Interiors, LLC, gave them exactly that. By expanding the space by 14 feet, incorporating two islands (one for eating and one for prep), adding windows and a vaulted ceiling, the family received a kitchen that was simple, elegant and matched the existing aesthetics of their home. LIV Interiors, LLC, replaced the darker wood cabinetry with creamy-white painted wood, beaded inset cabinets to brighten the feel of the space. The two islands received a warm brown stained cherry to connect with the espresso wood finish of the family room, and the walls were painted soft grays and taupes. Countertops display a creamy, “Taj Mahal” color, while the backsplash adds dimension and richness with its marble treatment. LIV Interiors, LLC 610.866.6696

Photos by Wendy Benedict Photography

Project to $40,000* ASRE, LLC

610.797.3212 advancedexcavatingllc@gmail.com asrellc.com

Home to $1,500,000*

ANTHONY HOME BUILDERS, INC.

610.865.9314 frank@anthonybuilders.com anthonybuilders.com

Interior Remodeling to $75,000* ANTHONY T. KONESKI, INC.

610.972,6798 atkinc@ptd.net anthonykoneski.com

New Home Kitchen Over $50,000

Remodeled Kitchen Over $125,000* BRADER’S WOODCRAFT, INC.

610.262.3452 braderswoodcraft@gmail.com

Whole House Renovation to $400,000 Multi-Family Home for Rent Community Up to 50 Units Home to $300,000* CITYLINE CONSTRUCTION

610.820.5555 cityline@citylineconstruction.com citylineconstruction.com

Interior Space Utilization*

CLOSET FACTORY

610.944.1333

bob.focht@closetfactory.com closetfactory.com

Historic Restoration/Renovation*

Commercial Project CMG OF EASTON, INC.

610.258.0677 info@cmgofeaston.com cmgofeaston.com

Interior Remodeling Over $150,000 Project to $20,000* EAST ROCK CONSTRUCTION

610.841.4482 accounts_erc@yahoo.com

Addition to $500,000* Home to $700,000

Home to $800,000 Home to $1,200,000

ERWIN FORREST BUILDERS, LLC

484.571.9990 keith@efbuilders.net erwinforrest.com

Project to $50,000* HABITAT BUILDING GROUP, LLC

570.409.3033

brian@habitatbuildinggroup.com habitatbuildinggroup.com

Home Over $1,500,000*

MYRON R. HAYDT DEVELOPMENT, INC.

610.776.2952 myron@myronhaydt.com myronhaydt.com

Home to $400,000*

HOWARD HOMES

610.797.8799

info@howardhomes.net howardhomes.net

Remodeled Kitchen to $50,000* JARRETT DESIGN, LLC

610.972.5218 jill@jarrettdesignllc.com jarrettdesignllc.com

Decorative Interior Design* LIV INTERIORS, LLC

610.866.6696

Project to $30,000

Addition Over $500,000

Community Over 50 Units TUSKES HOMES 610.691.1555 marthac@tuskeshomes.com tuskeshomes.com 1 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

livllc@ptd.net livinteriorsllc.com

Basement Over $75,000* MONOGRAM CUSTOM HOMES

610.282.0235 tony@monogramcustomhomes.com monogramcustombuilders.com

Hardscaping/Stonework Over $100,000* MASTERPLAN LANDSCAPE DESIGN & MONOGRAM CUSTOM POOLS 610.628.2480 josh@masterplanpa.com masterplanpa.com 610.282.0235 tony@monogramcustompools.com monogramcustompools.com

Bathroom Over $50,000*

MORRIS BLACK DESIGNS 610.264.2700 dlenner@morrisblack.com morrisblack.com

Project to $100,000

Handscaping/Stonework to $20,000

Handscaping/Stonework Over $20,000* PAPPAS LANDSCAPE & CONSTRUCTION

610.767.3377 gpappas@pappaslandcare.com pappaslandcare.com

Project Over $100,000

Addition to $150,000

Home to $600,000

PENN CONTRACTORS, INC. 610.965.4204 contact@penncontractors.com penncontractors.com

Project to $10,000

Interior Remodeling to $150,000*

Addition to $300,000

Bath to $50,000 POSAVEK CONSTRUCTION, INC. 610.866.6302 bposavek@posavek.com posavek.com

Energy Efficiency/Sustainability

Universal Design RUHMEL CONTRACTING, INC. hersh@ruhmelhomes.com robin@ruhmelhomes.com ruhmelhomes.com

Commercial Remodeling Project* Sunroom

New Home Kitchen to $50,000 S&D RENOVATIONS, INC. 610.366.8828 steved@sdrenovations.com sdrenovations.com

Bath to $25,000* STOFANAK CUSTOM CABINETRY 610.759.9311 elizabeth@stofanak.com stofanak.com

Remodeled Kitchen to $125,000*

Basement to $75,000 Home to $500,000

STUDIO26 HOMES 610.391.0100 info@studio26homes.com studio26homes.com

Model Home Over $350,000*

TRADITIONS OF AMERICA 1.877.TOA.HOME info@traditionsofamerica.com traditionsofamerica.com

INSIDE DISH

BEHIND THE MENU

Makin g Change at Th e Mint

BY CARRIE HAVRANEK | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALISON CONKLIN

Dominic Lombardo

Owner

& Chef

When we featured The Mint in these pages five and a half years ago, chef-owner Dominic “Mimmo” Lombardo, known mostly at the time for Italian cooking and his family’s restaurant Stefano’s, shared his vision for The Mint—and it did indeed include owning a restaurant in a former bank. He said: “Banks and restaurants have the same agenda. They have street visibility, plenty of parking and are built to last.”

In the case of The Mint, whose name reflects the building’s former use as the Bank of Pennsylvania and was built in 1955, a lot can happen in

five years. The restaurant has become a fixture of the neighborhood—something Lombardo does not take lightly. The Mint, after all, remains a pub at heart—with or without the prefix “gastro” applied to it. In five years, a restaurant can open and close. It can sell to new owners. It might switch around its concept entirely. Chefs come and go, servers and bartenders leave through natural attrition. And, of course, the menu changes from time to time, in content and presentation— but also its philosophy.

“We’ve changed the way we change the menu,” says Lombardo. Instead of changing it four times a year, roughly aligned with the seasons, The Mint now has a core menu that changes twice a year. (And they’ve brought back lunch.) Anniversaries often provide natural breaks for reflection. “It was time. It is important to show people that there is no finish line in the restaurant world. There is no champagne or bouquet of flowers, none of that,” he says.

Certainly, restaurants need to innovate to stay fresh, but change is not considered lightly. Lombardo’s a thoughtful chef; don’t let the vibrant colors, innovative takes on classics and the funky bathroom door fool you. “We don’t change for the sake of change. It’s always with intent,” he says.

The menu is the message the kitchen wants to convey to diners, so when it changes, the conversation needs to reflect that, too. Menus that change frequently are typically more aligned with the seasons, so one might assume the inverse: a place that’s changing its menu less frequently is not interested in offering anything seasonal or local. Well, that’s not entirely the case. In fact, this counterintuitive approach makes good sense.

“We always struggled with the dichotomy of sourcing locally and maintaining the consistency of offerings associated with a local pub,” says Lombardo. When offering classic and popular dishes such as mac and cheese and burgers, they don’t necessarily lend themselves to the kind of

extensive menu alternations that invite seasonal foods. He mitigates this issue by offering a dessert such as a cheesecake with “seasonal fruit,” which may be peaches, pears, berries—depending. It’s one small measure toward sustainability.

The classic example that he and many other chefs give when talking about this issue of seasonality and sourcing is the humble burger. “You want lettuce, tomato and onion on your burgers all year round, right? You have to be able to accept that it’s not going to be coming locally to you all year round,” he says. Most people would bristle if those items were missing from a plate. “I’d love to get to the point in the winter when we can offer pickled tomato or tomato preserves on burgers and people will understand why it’s there,” he says. “I could do that, but I’d be Sean Brock at $80 a plate instead of my value-driven ideals here at The Mint,” he says, referring to the Southern chef whose commitment to farm-driven, locally sourced cuisine has won him many awards.

“I’ve always pushed the concept of an honest kitchen,” says Lombardo. “I tell you where I get it, how I prepare it.”

A place that made a splash (and continues to please) with its beloved burger, for example, isn’t going to skimp when it comes to ground beef.

But it goes beyond that, this concept of what’s loosely termed farm-to-table. “Why are we killing ourselves trying to do something that isn’t fair to our guests? It’s stressing farmers to produce things and do things they can’t do and it taxes printers by printing new menus,” he says, among other unsustainable practices. Customers, of course, come to expect certain items on the menu, and that’s part of the challenge.

This concern is one shared by many chefs in the Valley—the desire to source foods close to home versus the realities. For Lombardo, he’s done what makes the most sense for him, in order to maintain the consistency and quality people expect from a neighborhood pub. A place that made a splash (and continues to please) with its beloved burger, for example, isn’t going to skimp when it comes to ground beef. It’s one of the areas where Lombardo feels The Mint can consistently source locally. So, he’s partnered with Nate Thomas of Breakaway Farms in Mount Joy, for grass-fed ground beef and its classic ribeye entrée, along with pastured pork products; Lombardo tells you the provenance on the menu. It’s a partnership that works well. “He

“ We’ve changed the way we change the menu.”

Bank Burger

Breakaway Farms’ beef patty, everything aioli, cooper cheese, lto, PA bacon, local seeded bun and tots

INSIDE DISH

does some butchering and I do the rest,” he says Lombardo relies upon Allen Brothers in New York for the roast beef that goes into its beef and cheddar, an ooey-gooey delicious mess of a sandwich akin to its famous fast-food cousin that will remain unnamed, but way better. The roast beef is cut in house, and Lombardo creates a special sauce and tops it with buttered onions and a horseradish aioli. Its cheddar blend is from Cabot in Vermont, and the seeded roll it’s served on is locally produced, from the Wayfare Baker. “His stuff is so much better than anything else I can get, so it’s worth it. If I can’t do it better, I won’t. I will reward another local business with my business. The guest only benefits in the end,” he says.

“It’s fun to experiment with things outside of my comfort zone.”

All those little things add up to create what’s hopefully a superior dining experience. Lombardo has always taken extra steps when it comes to ensuring that everyone feels welcome at The Mint, including those who don’t eat meat, gluten or dairy. But Lombardo goes further and actually does chickpea French fries with a curried housemade ketchup. Sometimes vegetarians don’t want to order fries because often meats have also been cooked in the fryer’s oil. They don’t become nearly

as crispy and aren’t as salty as fries, but they are a flavorful and nutritious twist. Lombardo is a whiz with veggies—the roasted butternut squash is unexpectedly paired with oven-dried tomatoes, along with goat cheese and roasted pumpkin seeds. The veggie burger is always tricky, but Lombardo made his vegan and worked for three months on perfecting the combo of red beets, chickpeas and black beans. “It needed a crust on it; so many veggie burgers don’t get that,” he says. “It’s fun to experiment with things outside of my comfort zone.”

Lombardo is deliberate about this in multiple ways. For the past three years, he has made it his policy to not read any online reviews; his staff checks on them instead. “If I think about all of those things, I won’t be bravely trying new things,” he says. And that means no new fun things will arrive on the menu. Take for example, the MGP Doritos. Lombardo says he and his staff were tossing around ideas in the kitchen in a process they call “food pong” one day and thought about doing a spin on the famous tortilla chips. (“I love Doritos but they give me heartburn immediately,” he says.) They settled on the ranch flavor, which was easy enough to pull off, and accompanied it with an avocado aioli. The taste is spot-on, but better; the chips are pure white corn, for example, and there aren’t any preservatives. Like everything you consume at The Mint, the dish is slightly familiar, but with some

Oysters Rock-A-Fella

fried Virginia oysters, spinachparmesan fondue, pickled onions and tobiko

unexpected moves. Ramen Dixie is another such example. Ramen dishes often deliver a kick, but don’t typically run south for it. This one does, with a sous-vide pork belly, ramen noodles, a potlikker broth, kale and, of course, that 60-minute egg that makes all the difference. You can count on sriracha making an appearance. It works.

The menu evolution has happened gradually, and Lombardo is pleased that people are finally asking “What’s new?” as opposed to “What’s still on?” They’re on board for the ride; they trust him and his staff and know that whatever the kitchen comes up with, it’s worth exploring.

“You have to find who you are, make no excuses and apologies, and just cook,” he says.

Roasted Butternut Squash

Oven-dried tomatoes, toasted pumpkin seeds, goat cheese, fresh herbs and sherry vinegar

The Mint

1223 W. Broad St., Bethlehem 610.419.3810

bethlehemmint.com

Lombardo i s a whiz with veggies

HOURS

Lunch and dinner: Tues.–Sat. 11:27 a.m.–10 p.m. (Yes, you read that right; Lombardo has a thing for numbers. Ask him for the story about 27.); Bar: 11:27 a.m.–midnight.

RESERVATIONS

Recommended for the weekend

PARKING

Ample; lot on premises and street parking

PAYMENT

Visa, MasterCard, American Express

WHAT TO ORDER

It’s hard to decide what to do with this menu, because so much of it tempts and it’s all intriguing. Try out the Bank Burger, the Ramen Dixie or the Oysters Rock-a-Fella— the meaty bivalves are sourced from Virginia, fried and served with pickled onions and tobiko atop a spinach-Parmesan fondue. And don’t think you’re exceptionally cheeky by wondering if he copied his “Crack Pie” from David Chang. “I guarantee you we both stole it from the same little place in Texas that makes it,” he says.

SPECIALS

“We’re happy every hour—we don’t need a happy hour,” says Lombardo. The Mint tends to inspire a loyal crowd, and a craft beer-loving crowd, too. The specials here are geared around that. Look for exclusive beer releases; he tries to work with and feature as many local breweries as possible. (Hint: They offer beer from Tired Hands, a microbrewer near Philly.) Sunday brunch takes place the second Sunday of the month (except August) from 10 a.m.–2 p.m. “The menu is different every time, but you’ll always find some variation on familiar things such as Eggs Benedict and steak and eggs and our burger is always there.”

DINING GUIDE

WHERE TO GO TO PLEASE YOUR PALATE

B Breakfast

Br Brunch

L Lunch

D Dinner

LN Late Night

CC Major Credit Cards

RS Reservations Suggested

) Reservations Required

 Reservations Accepted Online

 Handicapped Accessible

Berks

 Entertainment

z Non Smoking Available

 Valet Parking

AAA Rating

BYOB BYOB

 Alcohol Served

Average dinner entrée prices:

$ under $15

$$ $15-$25

$$$ $25 and above

Gracie’s 21st Century Café and Catering Gracie’s is a fine dining restaurant with full service catering available on and off premises. 1534 Manatawny Rd., Pine Forge, 610.323.4004, gracies21stcentury.com, D $$$, RS 

Bucks

McCoole’s at the Historic Red Lion Inn Offering a dining room, martini lounge and bar in a beautifully restored Inn from the 1700s. Monthly featured wines and brews from their own Red Lion Brewery. Outdoor patio dining is available in season. Also offering a complementary door-to-door and hotel shuttle service within a five-mile radius of the restaurant to bar and restaurant patrons, as well as private events at McCoole’s Arts & Events Place. Mon.-Thurs. 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Fri. 11 a.m.–11 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.–11 p.m., Sun. 9 a.m.–10 p.m. 4 S. Main St., Quakertown, 215.538.1776, mccoolesredlioninn.com, Br, L & D $-$$$, CC 

Carbon

Slopeside Pub & Grill Offers indoor dining in addition to our ever-popular outdoor dining! Guests will enjoy delicious food, tasty drinks and unforgettable scenic views all year round. Tues.–Thurs. 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Fri.–Sat. 11 a.m.–11 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.-9 p.m. 1660 Blue Mountain Dr., Palmerton, 610.824.1557, skibluemt.com, B, Br, L D & LN $-$$$, CC

The Dime A modern upscale take on traditional American comfort food. Mon.-Sat. 6:30 a.m.-11 p.m., Sun. 7 a.m.-11 p.m. 12 N. 7th St., Allentown, 484.273.4000, thedimeallentown.com, B, L, D, LN $$$, RS, CC 

Fiesta Olé Mexican Restaurant Authentic Mexican restaurant with fresh food and very friendly ambiance and service with affordable prices. Mon.-Thurs. 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Sun. 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m. 1116 Chestnut St., Emmaus 610.966.5522, fiestaole.com L $, D $$, CC, RS, BYOB z

Fiesta Olé “Tequila House” Sun.-Mon. noon-9:30 p.m., Tues.-Wed. noon-10 p.m., Thurs. noon-11 p.m., Fri.-Sat. noonmidnight. 1808 MacArthur Rd., Whitehall, 484.664.7109, fiestaoleonline.com, L, D & LN $$, RS, CC 

Gio Italian Grill Gio Italian Grill offers old world charm with a progressive twist. Centering around their woodstone open flame hearth, Gio uses only imported ingredients to produce mouth-watering flavors. Take-out and private parties available. Mon.-Thurs. 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 11 a.m.-10 p.m. 6465 Village Ln., Macungie, 610.966.9446, gioitaliangrill.com, L $$ , D $$ , CC  z

Lehigh

187 Rue Principale Modernist French restaurant utilizing local and sustainable products in its creative ever-changing menu. Sun.-Mon. 8 a.m.-3 p.m., Tues.-Sat. 8 a.m.-10 p.m. 187 Main St., Emmaus , 610.928.0418, 187rueprincipale.com, Br, L, D, LN $$-$$$, RS, CC 

Glasbern Inn Come experience dining at the Farm’s Table. Many of our ingredients are grown and raised on our sustainable farm just 10 minutes west of Allentown. Our new Grand Lodge is open year-round and accommodates up to 150 guests. The Glasbern offers options for both rustic and elegant weddings, great views for outdoor ceremonies, overnight lodging options, meeting rooms and spa facilities. Dinner every night 5:30-8:30 p.m. 2141 Packhouse Rd., Fogelsville, 610.285.4723, glasbern.com, L $$, D$$$, CC )  (limited) z

Grille 3501 Upscale, yet unpretentious. Fine fusion cuisine. Extensive martini, wine and beer menus. Mon.-Fri. 11:30 a.m.10 p.m., Sat 4-10 p.m. Open Sun for private parties only. 3501 Broadway, Allentown, 610.706.0100, grille3501.com, L $$, D $$, CC, RS z

Aladdin Restaurant Family owned and operated for over 30 years. Serving a variety of authentic Middle Eastern cuisine from homemade grape leaves to delicious shish kabobs. Lunch: Tues.-Sat. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Dinner: Tues.-Sat. 5-10 p.m., Sun. 4-9 p.m. 651 Union Blvd., Allentown, 610.437.4023, aladdinlv.com, L & D $$, RS, CC, BYOB 

Allentown Brew Works Award winning, environmentally friendly restaurant and brewery. Family owned and operated since 2007. Sun.-Thurs. 11 a.m.-midnight, Fri.-Sat. 11-2 a.m. 812 W. Hamilton St., Allentown, 610.433.7777, thebrewworks.com, Br, L, D & LN $$, RS, CC 

Bell Hall A quintessential American burger joint, reimagined for the discerning diner. Mon.-Thurs. 11-1 a.m. (kitchen until midnight), Fri.-Sat. 11-2 a.m. 612 W. Hamilton St., Allentown, 610.437.1825 bellhallallentown.com L, D & LN $, RS, CC, 

Copperhead Grille The Lehigh Valley’s premiere sports offering signature homemade recipes. Mon.-Sat. 11 a.m.midnight, Sun. 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Two great locations, 5737 Rte. 378, Center Valley and 1731 Airport Rd., Allentown, 610.403.4600, copperheadgrille.com, Br $, L & D $$, CC, RS  z

The Grille at Bear Creek Mountainside dining featuring continental cuisine with a Pennsylvania twist. Open daily. Seasonal outdoor dining. Sun.-Thurs. 4-11 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 4 p.m.-2 a.m. 101 Doe Mountain Ln., Macungie, 610.641.7149, bcmountainresort.com, L & D $$, LN $, CC  

The Hamilton Kitchen & Bar The Hamilton features seasonal American cuisine from regional classics to favorites from the family dinner table. Seasonal outdoor dining. Mon.-Thurs. 11:30 a.m.- 10 p.m., Fri. 11:30 a.m.-11 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.-11 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.-9 p.m. 645 W. Hamilton St., Allentown, 610.433.3535, thehamiltonkitchen.com, BR, L & D $$, CC, RS,  

Hop’s Fogelsville Hotel Casual, comfortable pub built in 1798 with three separate dining areas and outside seasonal patio. Diverse menu with huge bottle and draft selections. Mon. 4 p.m.-midnight, Tues.-Sat. 11:15-2 a.m., Sun. noon-midnight. 7921 Main St., Fogelsville, 610.395.3999, hopsfogelsville.com, L, D & LN $$, RS, CC  

Hops @ The Paddock Voted friendliest neighborhood place. Stop by and you’ll see why. Mon. 4 p.m.-2 a.m., Tues.Sat. 11-2 a.m., Sun. noon-2 a.m. 1945 W. Columbia St., S. Whitehall, 610.437.3911, hopspaddock.com, L, D & LN $, RS, CC 

House & Barn Two distinctly different restaurants, one spectacular setting, entirely re-imagined. House: Tues.– Thurs. 4–9 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 4–11 p.m., Barn: Tues.–Thurs. 11 a.m.–9 p.m., Fri.–Sat. 4–11 p.m. 149 Chestnut St., Emmaus, 610.421.6666, houseandbarn.net, L & D $$, RS, CC,  

Keystone Pub Demand better beer! Call ahead seating Sun.-Thurs. 11–1 a.m., Fri.-Sat. 11-2 a.m. 1410 Grape St., Whitehall, 610.434.7600, 3259 Easton Ave., Bethlehem, 610.814.0400, keystonepub.com, L, D, & LN $, CC 

Limeport Inn New American cuisine in a relaxed country setting. Tues.-Thurs. 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m., Sun. 2-8 p.m. 1505 Limeport Pike, Limport, 610 967 1810, limeportinn.com, L & D $$-$$$, RS, CC 

Matey’s Famous Steaks & Pizza Casual, family-friendly dining featuring cheesesteaks, pizza, salads, wraps and milkshakes. Fun, 50s-style décor! Mon.-Fri. 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Sat. noon-8 p.m. 1305 Broadway, Fountain Hill, 610.866.6022, mateysfamous.com, L & D $, CC 

Melt Offering a sumptuous menu of contemporary Italian fare in its breathtaking 350-seat restaurant. Lunch: Mon.-Sun. 11 a.m.4 p.m., Dinner: Mon.-Thurs. 4-10 p.m., Fri-Sat. 4-11 p.m., Sun. 4-9 p.m. 2880 Center Valley Parkway, Suite 624 610.798.9000, meltgrill.com, L $$, D $$$, LN, CC, RS  (Thurs.-Sat. starting at 4 p.m.)

Roar Social House Steaks, seafood and classic American cuisine in a 1920s-themed restaurant. Lunch: Mon.-Fri. 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m., Dinner: Mon.-Thurs. 4-10 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 4-11 p.m. 732 Hamilton St., Allentown, 610.434.1230, roarallentown.com, D $$$, RS, CC  

Roma Ristorante Casual fine dining with full bar. Experience Roma Ristorante, tying in Old Rome with the new. Pasta, steaks, chops and seafood. Mon.-Thurs. 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 11 a.m.-11 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.-9 p.m. 925 Airport Center Dr., Airport Shopping Center, Allentown 610.841.7662, romapa.com, L $$, D $$, CC ) 

Savory Grille Savory Grille is the expression of the culinary passion of Shawn and Dorothy Doyle, husband and wife chefs in residence. Dinner: Wed.-Sat. 4:30-10 p.m., Sun. 1-8 p.m. 2934 Seisholtzville Rd., Macungie, 610.845.2010, savorygrille.com, D $$$, RS, CC  ) z 

Switchback Pizza Company Neapolitan pizza made with local ingredients in our Italian wood oven for you to enjoy. Wed–Sat. 11:30 a.m.–8 p.m. 525 Jubilee St., Emmaus, 610.928.0641, switchbackpizza.com, L & D $, CC BYOB 

Taste of Italy Ristorante Visit Little Italy without the drive. Offering a full variety of Italian foods from gourmet pizza to veal, chicken, pasta and seafood. Great family dining. Full wine list and cocktails served. Mon.-Thurs. 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 11 a.m.-10:30 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.-9 p.m. 1860 Catasauqua Rd., Allentown 610.266.8011, tasteofitalypa.com, L $, D $$, CC, RS  z 

Top Cut Steakhouse Classically inspired cocktails, exquisite wines and USDA prime steaks in a 1940s style rooftop atmosphere. Tues.–Thurs. 4:30-10 p.m., Fri.–Sun. 4:30-11 p.m. 2880 Center Valley Parkway, Suite 625, Center Valley, 610.841.7100, topcutsteak.com, D & LN, $$$, RS, CC 

Torre Classic Mexican cuisine with a modern twist in a fun, family-friendly atmosphere. Enjoy Happy Hour gathered around our three-story tequila tower. Sun. 10:30 a.m.-9 pm., Mon.-Thurs. 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 11 a.m.-11 p.m. 2960 Center Valley Pkwy., Center Valley, 610.841.9399, torrerestaurant.com, Br, L, D & LN $$, RS, CC   (Thurs.-Sat. starting at 4 p.m.)

The Trapp Door Gastropub Upscale food in a fun, relaxed atmosphere with an extensive craft beer list. Brunch: Sat.-Sun. 11 a.m.-3 p.m., Dinner: Tues.-Sat. 4 p.m.-midnight. 4226 Chestnut St., Emmaus, 610.965.5225, thetrappdoorgastropub.com, Br, D & LN $$$, RS, CC  

Union and Finch A casual American bistro serving lunch and dinner six days a week and brunch on weekends. Tues.- Fri. 11 a.m.-midnight, Sat.-Sun. 10a.m.-midnight. 1528 W. Union St., Allentown, 610.432.1522, unionandfinch.com, L & D $$, RS, CC 

but what else would you expect from fresh steak paired with bacon & brie?

DINING GUIDE

White Orchids Thai Cuisine Authentic Thai cuisine in a contemporary and relaxed dining atmosphere. Signature seafood dishes, house specialties and classic Thai entrées. New bar and lounge area. Mon.-Thurs. 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Sun. noon-9 p.m, The Promenade Shops at Saucon Valley, 2985 Center Valley Pkwy., Center Valley 610.841.7499, whiteorchidsthaicuisine.com, L & D $$, CC ) z

Yianni’s Taverna & Euro Lounge From our seafood (which is flown in from around the world), to our homemade gyros and vegetarian specialities, to our Greek honey and home-grown herbs everything is extraordinary. We keep preparation simple to keep the true integrity of the flavors at the heart of the Mediterranean diet, which is our way of life. Mon.-Thurs. 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 11:30 a.m.-11 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.-9 p.m. 3760 Old Philadelphia Pike, Bethlehem, 610.867.8821, yiannistaverna.com, Br & L $, D $$, CC, RS 

Youell’s Oyster House “Sea to Table Since 1895.” The region’s seafood destination. Minutes from PPL Center events. Featuring Maryland crabmeat dishes, authentic paella and cioppino. Raw bar with varietal oysters, seafood towers and ceviche. Directly and sustainably sourced seafood delivered 7 days a week. Mon.-Sat. 4-10 p.m., Sun. 3-8 p.m. 2249 Walnut St., Allentown, 610.439.1203, youellsoysterhouse.com, D $$, RS, CC 

Northampton

1741 on the Terrace Casual farm-to-table menu. Exquisite view. Wine Spectator Award of Excellence winner. Sun.Thurs. 5-9 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 5-10 p.m. 437 Main St., Bethlehem, 610.625.2219, 1741ontheterrace.com, D $$, RS, CC, 

Apollo Grill Bistro-style restaurant encouraging a grazing dining experience. We’re comfortable, friendly, sophisticated and lively. Tues.-Sat. 11 a.m-10 p.m. Bar open late. 85 W. Broad St., Bethlehem 610.865.9600, apollogrill.com, L $, D $$, LN, CC, RS  z

Bethlehem Brew Works Award winning, environmentally friendly restaurant and brewery. Family owned and operated since 1998. Sun.-Sat. 11-2 a.m., kitchen open weekdays 11 a.m.11 p.m., weekends 11 a.m.-midnight. 569 Main St., Bethlehem, 610.882.1300, thebrewworks.com, Br, L, D & LN $$, RS, CC 

blue grillhouse | wine bar Prime steaks and chops, and seafood flown in daily. More than 250 wines. Mon.-Thurs. 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 11 a.m.-11 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.-9 p.m. 4431 Easton Ave., Bethlehem. 610.691.8400, bluegrillhouse.com, Br & L $$, D $$$, RS, CC z

Buddy V’s Ristorante Featuring a twist on Italian-American favorites as well as an impressive desert selection. Sun-Thurs. 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m, Fri.-Sat. 11:30 a.m.-11 p.m. 77 Sands Blvd., Bethlehem, 484.777.7777, pasands.com L & D $$, RS, CC 

Copperhead Grille The Lehigh Valley’s premiere sports grille, offering signature homemade recipes. Mon.-Sat. 11 a.m.midnight, Sun. 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Two great locations, 5737 Rte. 378, Center Valley and 1731 Airport Rd., Allentown, 610.403.4600, copperheadgrille.com B $, L & D $$, CC, RS  z

Corked Up beat/high energy Vegas-style wine bar & steak house located in downtown Bethlehem. Offering 32 wines by the glass, 24 tap beers, 1 great menu. Mon.-Thurs. 3:30-10 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 3:30 p.m.-midnight, Sun. 3:30-9 p.m. 515 Main St., Bethlehem, 610.625.9463, corkedwinebar.com, L, D & LN $$, RS, CC 

DeLorenzo’s Italian Restaurant Homestyle Italian cuisine in an elegant atmosphere. On- and off-premises catering available. Tues.-Thurs. 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Sun. noon-9 p.m. 3417 Sullivan Trl., Easton, 610.438.6026, delorenzosrestaurant.com, L & D $$, RS, CC z

DiMaio’s Italian Ristorante & Pizzeria Family-owned and operated since 1985. Serving southern Italian cuisine in a friendly and casual family atmosphere. Known for our homemade bread, chicken francaise and DiMaio’s clam sauce. Celebrating our 31st Anniversary. Daily lunch and dinner specials. Mon -Thurs. 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Seasonal outdoor

dining. 27 Main St., Hellertown, 610.838.8004, dimaios.net, L & D $, CC, BYOB z )(for parties over 8)

Diner 248 Fine diner-ing at its best. Handmade, fresh food, craft beer, libations and desserts. Call ahead sitting available. Sun.-Thurs. 6 a.m.-10 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 6 a.m.-11 p.m. 3701 Nazareth Rd., Easton, 610.252.4300, diner248.com, B, BR, L, D & LN $, CC 

EDGE No need to go to NYC! EDGE is the scene for fine cuisine, fab food and hip lounge. Dinner Mon.-Sat. starting at 5 p.m. 74 W. Broad St., Bethlehem 610.814.0100, edgerestaurant.net, D $$, LN, RS, CC 

Emeril’s Chop House Enjoy distinctive culinary creations with prime meat and savor fine wine with unmatched service. Sun.-Thurs. 5-10 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 5-11 p.m. 77 Sands Blvd., Bethlehem, 877.726.3777, pasands.com, D $$$, RS, CC 

Emeril’s Fish House Featuring an amazing assortment of seafood, steaks and chops with a Creole flair. Sun-Thurs. 4-10 p.m, Fri.-Sat. 4-11 p.m. 77 Sands Blvd., Bethlehem 484.777.7777 pasands.com D $$$, RS, CC 

The Historic Newburg Inn Established in 1750. Famous for more than 100 menu items and prime rib. Tues.-Fri. 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m., Sat. 4-9:30 p.m., Sun. noon-7:30 p.m. 4357 Newburg Rd., Nazareth, 610.759.8528, newburginn.com, L $, D $$, CC, RS 

Jenny’s Kuali Offering Malaysian cuisine, vegetarian entrees and noodle dishes freshly prepared in house every day. Mon.Wed. 11 a.m.-8 p.m., Thurs.-Sat., 11 a.m.-9 p.m., 102 E. 4th St., Bethlehem, 610.758.8088, jennyskuali.com, $, RS, CC, BYOB 

Jumbars Great food. Great atmosphere. Everything made fresh to order. Desserts are delectable! Tues.-Fri. 8 a.m.-2:30 p.m., Sat.-Sun. 7:30 a.m.-2 p.m. 1342 Chelsea Ave., Bethlehem, 610.866.1660, jumbars.com, B & L $$, CC,  BYOB

Keystone Pub Demand better beer! Call ahead seating. Sun.-Thurs. 11–1 a.m., Fri.-Sat. 11-2 a.m. 1410 Grape St., Whitehall, 610.434.7600, 3259 Easton Ave., Bethlehem, 610.814.0400, keystonepub.com, L, D, & LN $, CC   

Leaf Restaurant & Cigar Bar Global fusion cuisine on the finer side of casual. Fresh, local and sustainable menu. Full bar with over 90 craft beer selections. Sun., Tues. & Wed. 11:30 a.m.10 p.m., Thurs.-Sat. 11:30 a.m.-midnight. 90 Mort Dr., Easton, 610.559.1336, leafcigarbar.com, L, D, $$, CC, RS, 

The Market Gourmet Express All of your favorites in one place. Nathan’s hot dogs, burgers, pizza, salad, sushi, ice cream and coffee. Open 7 days a week. Hours differ per restaurant. 77 Sands Blvd., Bethlehem 877.726.3777, pasands.com, L, D & LN $, CC 

Maxim’s 22 Maxim’s 22 bistro and brasserie is the latest from the award winning Sette Luna team. Known for comfortable french fare in a casual setting. Tues.-Thurs. 5-9:30 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 11:30 a.m.-midnight, Sun. 10 a.m.-9:00 p.m. 322 Northampton St., Easton, 610.252.2622, maxims22.com, Br, L, D, LN, $$-$$$, CC, RS, 

McCarthy’s Restaurant & Red Stag Pub and Whiskey Bar

The taste of Ireland and the British Isles behind Donegal Square right off Main Street. Mon.-Tues. 10 a.m-4 p.m., Wed.Sun. 10 a.m-10 p.m. 534 Main St., Bethlehem, 610.861.7631, redstagpub.com, B, L, D & LN $, RS, CC 

The Mint Gastropub An experience without counterfeit. Specializing in contemporary comfort foods, American craft beers, unique spirits, cocktails and wines. Mon.-Sat. 4:30-11 p.m. 1223 W. Broad St., Bethlehem, 610.419.3810, bethlehemmint.com, L $, D & LN $$, RS, CC  

Mitzi’s Table Retro dining—all day brunch—classic comfort food kicked up with regional & ethnic specialties. Wed.-Fri. 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Sat-Sun 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m. 3650 Linden St., Bethlehem, 610.730.1670, mitzistable.com, B, Br & L $, CC, BYOB 

Molinari’s Authentic Italian food—simple, fresh, flavorful. Indulge in freshly made pasta, pizza in the Neapolitan style, gelato and sorbetto made on premises, and Italian wines and craft beers. Mon.-Wed. 5-9 p.m., Thurs.-Sat. 5-10 p.m. 322 E. 3rd St., Bethlehem, 610.625.9222, molinarimangia.com, D, $$, CC  

DINING GUIDE

Ocean With an eclectic, diverse menu and a New York restaurant and lounge feel, Ocean is the place to experience before a State show or for a romantic dinner in Easton’s growing new restaurant scene. Tues.-Thurs. 5-10 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 5 p.m.-midnight. 235 Ferry St , Easton 610.559.7211, ocean235.com, D $$ & LN, CC, RS, RS z

Prime Steak House Serving Premium Black Angus steaks, fresh seafood, chicken and pasta. Extended wine list. Sun.-Thurs. 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 11 a.m.-11 p.m. 325 Stoke Park Rd., Bethlehem, 610.882.4070, primestkhouse.com, L & D $$, CC, RS z

Sette Luna Rustic Italian featuring wood oven pizza, homemade pasta, alfresco dining. The enoteca boasts the Valley’s most extensive wine and beer list. Private wine cellar and live jazz every weekend. Mon.-Thurs. 11:30-9:30 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 11:30 a.m.-10:30 p.m. Sun. 10:30 a.m.-9:00 p.m., 219 Ferry St., Easton, 610.253.8888, setteluna.com, Br, L & D $$, CC  z

Social Still Craft distillery, tasting room, tours, bar and American style tapas restaurant. Wed.-Thurs. 4-10 p.m., Fri.-Sat. noon-11 p.m. 530 E. 3rd St., Bethlehem, 610.625.4548, socialstill.com, Br, L & D $$, RS, CC 

Steelworks Buffet & Grill

Experience a variety of fresh culinary dishes from around the world at Steelworks Buffet & Grill. Featuring live action cooking and a fully-stocked bar, guests will enjoy a variety of fresh international culinary dishes at the all-you-can-eat buffet or choose their favorites from the a la carte menu, including artisan pizza, a pasta station, sushi, fresh-carved meats, and more. Sun.-Sat. 6-2 a.m. 77 Sands Blvd., Bethlehem, 610.419.5555, villaenterprises.com B, L, & D $$ , CC 

Stefano’s Italian Restaurant “Traditional Italian Taste, Modern Italian Flair” Family owned and operated in the Lehigh Valley for over 26 years. Take-Out, Dine-In, Lounge and Banquet Facilities Available. Mon. 4-9 p.m., Tues.-Thurs. and Sun. 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 11 a.m.-11 p.m. 2970 Linden St., Bethlehem, 610.867.7775, Fax: 610 866 6081, stefanosrest.com, L & D $, CC ) z

Stefano’s Sicilian Grille Italian restaurant with a Sicilian flair. Family-oriented with a casual attitude. Tues.-Thurs. 4-10 p.m., Fri.-Sat. noon-11 p.m., Sun. noon-9 p.m., Mon. 4-9 p.m. (no pizza). 5364 Nor Bath Blvd. (Rte. 329), Northampton, 610.262.8760, stefanossiciliangrille.com L & D $-$$, RS, CC 

Tap Room Vintage 1920’s atmosphere overlooking historic Main Street. Award winning restaurant. Live Jazz every Thurs. & Sun.-Sat 6 a.m.-10 p.m. 437 Main St., Bethlehem, 610.625.2219, hotelbethlehem.com B, L, D, Br, & LN $$, RS, CC,  

Twisted Olive A casual bistro style restaurant with a world twist. Mon. 4-10 p.m., Tues.-Sat. 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m. 51 W. Broad St., Bethlehem, twistedolivebethlehem.com, 610.419.1200, L & D $$, RS, CC 

Weaversville Inn/Jessica’s Tearoom Historic country inn offering American cuisine for dinner. Victorian tearoom and lunch by day. Tues. 11 a.m.-4 p.m.. Wed.-Thurs. 11 a.m.-8 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Sun 9 a.m.-5 p.m. 6916 Weaversville Rd., Northampton, 610.502.9881, L & D $$, RS, CC z

The Widow’s Tavern and Grille Casual dining with an upscale feel. American cuisine with an Asian flair to please any palate. Beautiful, friendly and comfortable atmosphere. Entertainment every Wed. starting at 7 p.m., and Sat. starting at 9 p.m. Mon.-Sat. 11:30 a.m.-11 p.m., Sun. 11:30 a.m.-8 p.m. 200 Main St., Stockertown 610.365.8890, widowstavern.com, L & D $$, RS, CC z Lehigh Valley Style (ISSN 1540-0867) is published monthly by IDP Publications, 3245 Freemansburg Ave., Palmer, PA 18045-7118. Annual subscriptions are $19.95 (Canadian and foreign one year rate is $40, U.S.

LOCAL DRINK FAVES

Cucumber Basil Gimlet

Top Cut

BY KRISTEN RINALDI | PHOTO BY COLIN COLEMAN

Looking to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with something other than a mug full of green beer? Go for something a little more refreshing this March, like Top Cut’s Cucumber Basil Gimlet. Fresh-squeezed lime juice, muddled cucumber and basil, and simple sugar—to “balance the tartness of the lime,” general manager and the director of the beverage program at both Top Cut and Melt, Grant Parker, says—as well as your choice of vodka or gin complete this cocktail.

Traditionally, the gimlet is made with gin “as the botanicals in gin really give life to this timeless classic,” Parker explains. Still, he says it is very versatile in the way it allows bartenders to incorporate beets, rhubarb, lemongrass or any kind of stone fruit. Parker calls the gimlet the “most writtenabout cocktail,” with roots going back to British sailors in the 1800s and a memorable appearance in the film The Long Goodbye

If Top Cut is any indication, the gimlet’s reign lives on, as the CBG is one of the steak house’s most popular cocktails. “It is a great first drink for someone wanting something fresh or less spirit forward,” says Parker, noting that it pairs well with any of the restaurant’s salads and is a great match for their salmon entrée.

Having another round? Try the owner’s favorite tipple, the Manhattanish, which Parker calls a deconstructed bourbon Manhattan. “The vermouth component is replaced with three liqueurs that are harmonious with bourbon,” he says, leaving readers with one last piece of advice for cocktail ordering: “Please, remember, bourbon and rye are what this country is known for, and whiskey is the new vodka.”

Sláinte!

2880 Center Valley Pkwy., Center Valley 610.841.7100 | topcutsteak.com

Fresh-squeezed lime juice, muddled cucumber and basil, and simple sugar with your choice of vodka or gin